Decor & Design Scotland by decoranddesignscotland

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MAY | 2021 LAUNCH ISSUE

Real People Real Homes

HOW TO MAKE WORKING FROM HOME Work for you

KITCHENS Make your space work

327+ ideas

INTERIOR DESIGN MASTERS

Siobhan & Paul

SCOTLAND’S HOME OF THE YEAR Kate Spiers Interview

MINIMALIST V MAXIMALIST

Make the most of outdoors Grow to love your garden

HOME BARS | BUILD YOUR OWN HOUSE | OUTDOOR LIGHTING | EXTENSION GUIDE

E D I TO R’S LET T ER

Welcome

to the first edition of Decor and Design Scotland magazine, the freshest and most exciting interior design magazine for Scotland. If the past year or so has taught us anything, it’s that our homes are so much more than bricks and mortar. Whatever their size or shape, they are our safe havens; a sanctuary from a world that has seemed unfamiliar and challenging like never before. This has made us value them so much more on one hand, but has also highlighted things we may have tolerated and now want to change. It could be ‘Zoombarassment’. As many of us have had to work from home, we’ve had to have our homes exposed on-screen in a way we wouldn’t normally choose. More importantly, perhaps they don’t fit the way we live our lives now, and we need to make some bigger changes. The goal of Décor and Design Scotland is to inspire you with amazing décor and creative design ideas; we want to show you that great interior design can be achieved on ANY budget. Keep up-to-date with all the latest news in the interiors, design and home improvements world. Plus check out our selection of truly inspiring real Scottish homes - we’d like to thank all the kind and creative homeowners for letting us all have a good ol’ nosey around! We also get to see inside some incredible homes on the small screen in one of our favourite TV shows, Scotland’s Home of the Year. Read our interview with judge Kate Speirs on p8 where she tells us what it was like filming during a pandemic, what she looks for in a home when she’s considering its score, and how it differs from the other judges. She also takes us inside her recently renovated Glasgow tenement flat and tells us how she approaches decorating one. Talking of the small screen, in addition to swooning at the Duke of Hastings on Bridgerton (who wasn’t?!), we were lusting after the sumptuous, ‘more is more’ period interiors on-set, turn to p84 and find out how to ‘Rock the Regency Look’ in your own home.

then turn to p44. Learn how to make your workspace

work harder for you. No more eating your evening meal surrounded by files and folders – this is about making sure that your home works for your life without sacrificing your living or working spaces. Finally, one of the great things about working from home is that your working day lunch can take place ‘al fresco’ instead of ‘al desko’! For outdoor-living inspiration, turn to p100 to find out how to create a garden room that reflects your interior design style as well as being practical, and on p108 find out how to design a garden you can be proud of no matter how green your fingers are. We hope you enjoy this issue, as much as we loved putting it toge th e r ! Le t u s k n ow wh at you thi nk at info@decoranddesignscotland.co.uk. If your home reflects your eye for interior design, or you’ve done an amazing home makeover project and you’d like to tell us your story, email us at the address above.

Lindsay Doherty LINDSAY DOHERTY EDITOR

Check out our website www.decoranddesignscotland.co.uk

Should your home update plans include a new kitchen, don’t plan anything until you’ve read our kitchen section on p18. It’s full of design ideas and clever solutions to make sure what can be a daunting project - goes like clockwork. From worktops to boiling water taps, islands to pantries, we’ve hunted down the latest trends to suit all tastes and budgets.

If, like many of us, the way you work has changed for good, and your home now also doubles as your office,

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CO NT ENTS

CONTENTS 8

Kate Spiers

As Scotland’s princess of interior style, Kate is in great demand. We chat to the judge from Scotland’s Home Of The Year about her inspiration, her tenement looks and the future. And we get a peek behind the scenes from the show, as the judges were looking at the houses competing for the coveted title.

Real Home – Extensions Everyone always needs more space, but instead of starting to look at property sections, look at the space you already have and what you need. We look at the real homes that have gone through putting an extension in and ask the tough questions, as in, what is it really like from beginning to end?

38 Dark side

Kitchens Kitchens Kitchens

It’s the hub of the house, which makes it the room that most people spend the big budget on. We look at how to approach the daunting prospect and showcase some of the trends and space-saving designs that are out there.

ISSUE 1 | MAY 2021

50 Self-build

70 Mini v Maxi

Don’t like what you see on the market? Build your own. With the Scottish Government even encouraging people to enter the self-build market, find out how you can do it and learn from real homeowners who have done it.

Not sure where you sit in the debate? Try our quiz to find out. It could change your whole outlook and also your whole house!

59 Minimalist

Design

Sleek. Stylish. Simple. Take a look at what goes into minimalist style and see whether it’s for you.

It’s crazy to think as the weather is just turning nice, that there’s a trend towards dark colours in homes. From a few dark cushions to colouring a whole room midnight blue. Could you be persuaded over to the dark side?

The pandemic has seen nearly half the country forced to work from home. How have you coped? With many companies opting for blended, flexible working normality, we look at all the ways you can accommodate a work station regardless of the size of your home.

Interior Design Masters was a TV highlight for interior design fans. The two big personalities had to be Siobhan and Paul. We talk to the maximalist queen and the wallpaper king about what influences them, why they got into interior design and, most importantly, what is Alan Carr REALLY like?

80 Home Bars 64 Maximalist

44 Home office

72 The Masters of

More, more, more. If you like clashing colours, quirky décor and eccentric oddities around your house, then maximalist design could be for you.

We’ve been locked up for a year. No way to see our friends or families. Now restrictions are lifted, we look at the ingenious ways that people created their own bars in their homes and give you some ideas for how to create yours.

Regency looks Oh my, not only were we watching for the Duke of Hastings but we loved the look of the sets on the smash hit Netflix show. Find out how you can inject a bit of royal into your home. You can go all out regency or just a splash here and there.

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CONT E NTS

90 Miller

102

122

With the rise of working from home and work/life balance becoming more important, more and more people are utilising the space in their gardens to create another room. It’s far easier to do than you think. Take a look at the different ways that people have created a sanctuary for everything from work to exercise.

Unsure how you want your garden to look? Our guide to making the most of it will help the debate between concrete or decking and real grass or fake grass!

Garden Rooms

Homes Showhomes have had a stylised look for a long time, but Miller Homes is mixing it up with their new developments in the west of Scotland.

Real homes Scottish Cottage Tired of the pavements and rushing traffic? Want some nature and calm? Cottage life could be for you. We talk to a couple outside Stirling who swapped city living for rural life in a cottage and look at how they’ve managed to bring some great style and design into it.

108 Garden Design

How do you make a great garden? Well, you have to start by digging some earth! Learning how to garden doesn’t need to be scary, so our guide will show you how to easily create a garden for whatever you want it to do from vegetables to letting it run wild for insects.

115

Real homes Westholme

100 Outdoor

The sun has got its hat on, so it’s the perfect time to be looking at your outdoor areas. Whether you have a huge garden or a small plot, we have spoken to the experts about how to make the most of what can often be half of your property.

We chat to homeowner Nikki Brown in Aberdeen about their amazing renovation of their garden and how it’s been used since.

120 Outdoor living alfresco

Once you’ve done your garden, you’ll want to live in it, and show it off! So we’ve found the most stylish furniture and accessories that you need for your soon to be renovated green space!

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Outdoor living space

124

Egg chairs We would say go to work on an egg chair, but these are not meant made for work, they are meant for a chilled, sunny afternoon with a glass of wine and a book. If you don’t have an egg chair this year, well, you’re missing out. We’ve sourced the best for you.

EDITOR Lindsay Doherty lindsay@decoranddesign.co.uk @homeofwhimsy STAFF WRITERS Chloe Fleming chloe@decoranddesign.co.uk www.chloesuze.com Ellis Cochrane ellis@decoranddesignscotland.co.uk www.ellistuesday.com Zoe Johnston zoe@decoranddesignscotland.co.uk @zoejohnston1897 EDITORIAL CONSULTANT Mairi Clark mairi@decoranddesign.co.uk @theculturemonkey

126

Outdoor lighting Let’s be honest, when the sun goes own, we don’t head indoors! Extend your summer evening beyond dusk by investing in outdoor lighting. From floodlights to fairy lights, it’s all here.

129

Stockists List Want the look? Get it here. A list of all the fabulous stockists where you can recreate the great interiors we’ve featured.

ART & DESIGN Lyn Sneddon lyn@decoranddesignscotland.co.uk PHOTOGRAPHER Vicki Allison info@decoranddesignscotland.co.uk @vickiallisonphotography WEB EDITOR Kate McNee kate@decoranddesignscotland.co.uk @kate.m.lifestyle

PUBLISHER & MANAGING DIRECTOR Julia Smith julia@decoranddesign.co.uk OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Lana Wilkinson Whyte lana@decoranddesign.co.uk

La Vie en

“Last year we had a lot of period properties, whereas this year it’s a good mix of newer builds and fun homes” 8

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SHOTY pics: IWC/BBC Scotland, Photographer: Andrew Jackson/Curse These Eyes

s one of Scotland’s top bloggers and a judge on Scotland’s Home Of The Year, KATE SPIERS definitely knows her style when it comes to home décor and design. We sat down with Kate to talk all things home decor, TV work, filming and renovating in the middle of a pandemic. BY ELLIS COCHRANE

Interior design guru, Kate Spiers, is a common sight on social media. She has over a million followers across the various social media platforms, where she shares her aspirational but achievable posts on everything from High Street purchases to book and beauty recommendations. Her blog - katelavie.com - has been going for over ten years and her Instagram account has attracted over 300,000 followers. Those fans flock to see what accessories and design tips that the New Zealander is favouring in her latest posts, which catalogue the renovations on her tenement flat.

Since being chosen to be one of the judges for BBC ‘Scotland’s Home of the Year’ show, her fame has gone stellar but how easy will it be to continually find new and different houses for the show? “This year’s show is a step up in terms of the homes,” Kate says. “There are some incredible, incredible homes featured. More people have seen the show and as a result, loads more people applied, which helped with the selection process but also made it pretty tough to whittle them down for the final!” She’s also looking forward to reactions to the range of homes. “Last year we had a lot of period properties, whereas this year it’s a good mix of

newer builds and fun homes. It’s going to be a great series, I reckon.” ”There’s one that I actually mentioned on my Instagram, with a kitchen that had tiles that I had actually planned on getting for my own kitchen renovation,” she says. “But I ended up not doing so because we were in lockdown and they were coming from a different country and I didn’t want to take that risk. When I saw them in this home, I was like OMG I want this tile!” For the new series, we see Kate reunite with fellow judges; renowned interior designer, Anna Campbell-Jones and architect, Michael Angus. Something she was looking forward to. “Over time, we have gelled a lot better because we’ve spent so much time together and it comes across on screen,” she says. “We’ve grown a lot closer and have a better rapport between the three of us,” she says. “That’s one of my favourite things about filming, we go to so many places that I wouldn’t ordinarily go to. If it wasn’t for the show I would never have been to places like Orkney, Shetland, Skye and Lewis. We were so lucky to see these parts of Scotland, especially in lockdown. We also went to Harris this year, which I adored.”

MAY 2021 |

RH KATE SP I ERS Although Kate has a reputation as an interior design blogger, it makes her laugh as that was never her intention. “People often ask if I’ve done a course or something on interiors but to honest, I just sort of fell into it!” she laughs. “I have a passion for tenements and when I started renovating our first tenement flat, I started writing about it and people all over the world were interested in seeing the high ceilings and what it is that makes a tenement what it is. I managed to get the edge on tenement renovations as no one else was focusing on doing that eight years ago. My home decor content always has the biggest reaction of anything that I post on social media so I just roll with it and continue to share it. In reality, I actually do cover everything on my blog.” Tenement living is what made her name, and now Kate and her husband Jordan have moved to their second tenement, she continues to renovate it although lockdown proved difficult “We probably had our flat for about a year, buying it in April 2019, before a crazy year of life and work stuff,” she says. “When we initially started work on it, it didn’t work out with the original tradespeople as they didn’t have the same vision that we did. We then found new tradespeople but then I started filming the show and we ultimately had to down tools because of the pandemic. We also didn’t know if tradespeople could come round or what shipping was like. And a lot of the smaller companies that I had planned to shop with had closed completely.” “We did make some rash decisions. I like to think of my new kitchen as my ‘pandemic kitchen’. At the time we just needed a kitchen as we didn’t want to move in and not have a functioning kitchen. I thought that it would be temporary and eventually I would change it. But now that I look at it it’s fine and I like it, so I don’t know if we will change it.” The pandemic also impacted on filming of the latest series. “We typically start filming at the beginning of August each year, but in 2020 we begun in September instead,” she says. “A lot of us didn’t think that we would be able to film at all last year because of the pandemic, so we were surprised that we actually managed to do it, although it was tough. It was almost like a team building exercise because we were all in the same bubble.” “We actually filmed in the period between the first and second lockdowns in 2020 and there were lots of restrictions. We had regular COVID testing every couple of days, had to wear masks and had our temperatures taken twice a day.”

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KAT E SP I ER S RH

What is your favourite place in your own home and why? “We probably spend the most time in our living room because it’s kind of our living room and dining area combined. It’s such a cosy space with a lot of personality and we’ve got the comfiest sofa in the world. It’s also got a wall of windows so you can really soak up the sun when it’s sunny. Or on a gloomy day, it’s really nice to just coorie in and be cosy.”

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RH KATE SP I ERS

Kate and her fellow judges have different strengths when it comes to interior design. As Kate is self-taught, what is she on the lookout for? “We all have our different areas of expertise”, Kate says. “Anna has extensive experience of being an interior designer, while Michael’s experience is in architecture. As a lifestyle blogger, I’m looking more at the liveability of a home.” Kate’s keen eye for texture and trends come into play all the time. “I consider how the textures come together, how the rooms flow, how they’ve made

it feel like it’s personable. I like to see how they’ve injected their own character and personality into their home and how charming it feels. I also think about what kind of aesthetics are current in terms of Pinterest and Instagram trends. (If you don’t already follow Kate on both of these platforms, you are seriously missing out!) This is a totally different kind of interior than say, what Anna gets asked to do for her clients.” Trying to get the feeling of what it is like for a home to be lived in is something she is concerned doesn’t come across on screen. “You can have this curated space but could you imagine living in it?” she laughs.

“ You can have this curated space but could you imagine living in it?” 12

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“When you’re there in the home you can feel just how special a space is but that doesn’t always necessarily translate on screen. We don’t actually see a home before we visit, so any reactions that you see are completely natural as that’s just the first time we have seen it on camera! We now enjoy keeping it a surprise until we open the front door.” Tenement living isn’t for Kate forever, though. “I always thought that I would live in a tenement for the rest of my life but I think that we would like a proper garden at some point,” she says. “I think we’d probably like a Victorian villa with a garden and a wee extension that opens out onto a patio. That would be my dream but I don’t think that it would be too far away from my style at the moment either. I know what I like by now and I would definitely have some nice panelling, a bit of colour and when it comes to original features, I’d be looking for high ceilings and cornicing.”

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RH KATE SP I ERS

“ Live with and live in the space first”

All interior pics of Kates home: by Kate Spiers

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KAT E SP I ER S RH we did in our kitchen and bathroom can add a lot to a space.” Colour and shelving are going to also become popular she predicts. “Bespoke and open shelving and playing around with colour more will be appearing,” she says. “For a moment there, it was all about white walls but people are now experimenting with the likes of half walls of colour or even just a feature wall of colour.”

Having now got two tenement flat renovations under her belt, does she have any tips for other wannabe home interior designers? “Live with and live in the space first,” she adamantly says. “Maybe fix the things that are bothering you, like if you have magnolia walls, maybe give them a fresh lick of white paint. But in terms of changing big things, particularly the kitchen, you want to experience how you use a space first before jumping straight in. I’m personally not into a dark wall, particularly as someone who lives in Scotland. In the winter you need the lights on all the time so I cannot imagine what it would be like to have a dark or completely black room. I would probably avoid doing that as I love a bright, light, airy space. I love original detailing, as you might be able to tell. It’s always nice to see homeowners use local artists or items that are local to the area.” “Also a lot of people may rush into a renovation or use too many ideas at once. I can definitely be guilty of it, especially

when it comes to tile combinations. I want to use all of the tiles! But that’s when moodboards can come into their own. You can plan it all out and see how it would work in a space before you commit to it.” Reintroducing original features is a trend that Kate thinks will continue, and more imagination will be needed as Scotland has its own style of buildings. “You can look at photographs of a flat and immediately know that it is a Scottish tenement flat,” she says. “Because there’s so little that you can do structurally, it means that people have to think outside the box, like in the living room and kitchen there are little recess areas where beds used to be. Some people just put the kitchen in one of those recesses and then have an extra bedroom. What people do with those spaces is fun. We have a very unique style in Scotland when it comes to original floorboards and cornicing, for example, too. “Panelling and parquet are definitely having a moment currently, as is swapping out ugly radiators for column radiators instead. Adding original features back into a space, like buying cornicing and adding that back in, like

Kate’s beautiful bathroom renovation was actually the first space that we featured in the Tenement Living section of our website. Not only did she manage to fit a wet room shower, sink vanity, toilet AND a bath into the long narrow bathroom footprint that tenement bathrooms are known for. But her pink design has been a huge hit on social media and has definitely inspired us to consider rosy pink hues and brass fixtures instead of playing it safe with white tiles and chrome.

www.decoranddesignscotland.co.uk To find out more and to see much more of the transformation, be sure to head over to the REAL HOMES section of our website and click the TENEMENT LIVING drop down.

MAY 2021 |

RH KATE SP I ERS

The first contenders of series one for ‘Scotland’s Home of the Year’ had so much tartan that BBC Scotland actually made a bingo card for viewers to play along, and there were a lot of stag heads. What can she reveal about this series? “We haven’t actually seen that much tartan in the past couple of series” Kate says, “I’m not going to reveal too much but there’s lots in there that are going to cause controversy. Sometimes we have three great homes in one show and there could be a tie. There’s a great tie in the upcoming series, so it will be fun to see what people’s reactions are to that. It all depends on the homes that are in each category. For example, a second place home one week could actually have a higher score than a home that wins on another week. I love that everyone gets involved and has different opinions. It’s all down to your own personal taste!” We can’t wait to see what Kate does next when it comes to adding new pieces to her own home. And we will be watching every week to see Kate and her fellow judges consider and critique the homes that feature in this year’s series. Wherever you are in Scotland, if you think your home has something special, it could be the next winner of ‘Scotland’s Home of the Year’. For more information and to enter, please send your contact details, a brief description of your home and a few photographs to scotlandshomes@iwcmedia.co.uk

Scotland’s Home Of The Year returned to our screens on Wednesday April 7th on the BBC Scotland channel. But you can catch up with the series or any episodes that you’ve missed over on the BBC iPlayer. We can’t wait to see who makes it into the final on Wednesday June 9th at 8pm.

SHOTY pics: IWC/BBC Scotland, Photographer: Andrew Jackson/Curse These Eyes

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GOLD BATHROOM TAPS Crosswater Brushed Brass MPRO Basin 3 Hole Set (£379)

BEDROOM WALL LIGHTS Maisons Du Monde Glass and Gold Metal Wall Light (£33) Dowsing and Reynolds Angler Wall Light - Fool’s Gold (£75.99)

KATE’S EXACT TILE

PINK BATHROOM TILES Left: Claybrook Studio CAMPINOLA PRETTY PINK (£220.00 / Sqm) Right: Walls and Floors Vernice Bon Bon Pink Tiles (£39.95 / Sqm)

STEAL

ROUND RATTAN SHELVING UNIT IN BATHROOM Oliver Bonas Bali Rattan Wall Shelf (£79.50) Cox & Cox Bamboo Shelf Unit Round (£95)

VINTAGE STYLE RADIO John Lewis & Partners ROBERTS Revival Uno DAB/DAB+/FM Digital Radio with Alarm, Duck Egg (£149.99)

FAUX LARGE PLANT Left: Sweetpea & Willow Tall Monstera Plant (£225) Bottom: Leaf Envy Bird Of Paradise (£58)

PRINTS

GPO Retro Rydell Retro Radio in Pink (£34.99)

Left: Desenio SIMPLE LINES NO2 POSTER (£8.95 - £23.95) Right: Abstract House FACE LINE DRAWING ART PRINT (£35 - £140)

La Redoute Swan Retro DAB Bluetooth Radio in Green (£60)

KATE’S EXACT SOFA

RATTAN PLANT HOLDER Oliver Bonas Bali Rattan Plant Pot (£39.50) IKEA KAKTUSFIKON Rattan 24cm Plant Pot (£15)

MUSTARD VELVET SOFA Top: MADE.COM Scott 4 Seater Right Hand Facing Chaise End Corner Sofa, Gold Cotton Velvet (£1,899) Bottom: LOAF.COM Oscar chaise sofa XL right hand in Burnished Yellow Clever Velvet (£3285)

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Image: Trend

Project

New Kitchen Many people find the thought of planning a new kitchen to be intimidating. All those decisions to be made, all those measurements to take, and where to even begin? And that’s before they’ve even thought about the cost. But panic not, this isn’t a project you have to undertake on your own, there’s lots of help available if you know where to look. We’ve broken down a list of things to consider before you start on ‘project new kitchen’. BY LINDSAY DOHERTY

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Image: Second Nature Kitchens

MAKE A LIST Have a good long think about your kitchen layout as it stands at present. What works about this layout, and what doesn’t, make a list of both. Pay attention throughout different times of the day. Does it work when everyone is at home using the room at the same time, for example? Are all your family’s needs being met by the room, and if not, what’s missing? These answers may have become even more evident during lockdown as many of us have spent more time at home than ever. Understanding these basic wants and needs will help you narrow down some of the many decisions you’ll need to make.

BUDGET It’s important to know what you can afford and what you want to spend before you go kitchen shopping.

Then do a very rough breakdown of your budget to include all the elements you’ll need. Include costs for cabinets, drawers, worktop, appliances, lighting, flooring, decorating and finishing touches such as handles, taps and accessories. Don’t forget to include a cost for removing the old kitchen, fitting the new one, and always add a contingency. A rule of thumb is to add an extra 10% to cover yourself for any unforeseen costs. Use this breakdown as a starting point; you can fill in actual figures as and when you get them.

DESIGN Most companies that sell kitchens will offer a free design service either in-store or by video call for convenience if customers can’t come in. As well as talking through design ideas, they can give you exact measurements

you will need to take for them to draw scale plans of their designs. These plans can help you visualise what can be achieved in the space you have. And don’t just go to one company, shop around and get a few designs done. Once you’ve narrowed down your choice, go through the plans and allocate what will go in every single drawer and cupboard. The importance of enough storage cannot be overrated! To further help you visualise your chosen design in the space, you can use builder’s tape and a tape measure to mark the design on walls and floors. One step further is to use cardboard boxes as an ‘island’, for example, to give a more 3-D feel to how the design might look in the space. The benefit of using a family run kitchen company is the personalised service and attention to detail that they give. The organisation of trades can sometimes be challenging and if you miss anything out it can be a costly MAY 2021 |

K ITC H ENS mistake. Having a company like German Kitchen Studio measuring, designing and installing the complete kitchen can be the key to achieving the desired end result. They also work closely with the installer to ensure that the consumer is happy with the finished kitchen.

FITTING Research is everything when it comes to finding a reliable kitchen company as well as word of mouth. Ask friends, family and neighbours who they’ve used and would recommend. Experienced companies will have a wealth of finished projects that you can see so ask to see photos of the finished kitchens and you could even ask these former customers for a review. Most people will be only too glad to pass on details of a reliable company and tradesperson. When you’ve got a shortlist, ask them to provide a quote based on the design you’ve chosen and make sure you get at least two quotes to compare.

STYLE You might have the kitchen design and layout in the bag, but what about the colours, finishes, and overall style? To decide if you’d like to go modern or more traditional like a shaker style, a clue would be in the décor you’ve gone for (or plan to use) in the rest of your home. The

Image: Copperleaf

Image: Integra Gloss - Kings Park Kitchens

#kitchendesign on Instagram and save the ones you like in a folder. Create a kitchen board on Pinterest with styles that catch your eye. Pretty soon, you’ll start to see some themes emerge repeatedly, and these are an excellent basis for defining your new kitchen style. To help you begin your own ‘project new kitchen’ we’ve started the legwork for you. We’ve researched the latest trends, had a nosy inside some amazing real kitchens, spoke to some of our readers about their own kitchen must-haves (and must-not-haves) and got some great advice from Scotland’s kitchen experts. If you’re still hungry for more after reading all this kitchen content (no pun intended), we’ve got loads more on our website www.decoranddesignscotland.co.uk under the ‘inspirations’ menu. Image: Integra Gloss - Kings Park Kitchens

interior design of a home looks most authentic when there’s a general flow from room to room, and this includes the kitchen. So if your home is very modern everywhere else, it makes sense to continue this to your kitchen, and likewise if you have a more classic style. Once you’ve decided on modern or traditional, then try to drill down to some specific examples of kitchens you love. But how do you narrow down what you’d like when there is so much choice out there? As well as interiors websites and magazines, social media is your friend. Search hashtags such as

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K I TCHENS

Shades of Grey A rainbow of colour choices are out there when it comes to choosing kitchen cabinetry, but it’s perhaps the one room that you’ll want to stand the test of time more than any other. A particular colour might be hot right now in the world of kitchens, but if it dates too quickly, it could be a choice that you end up regretting. Brian Capaldi from Kings Park Kitchen suggests that if this is something you want to avoid, “consider neutral colour palettes such as greys and whites for Kitchen doors that won’t date quickly when trends move on”. One couple who had this front of mind when planning a new kitchen were Jenny and Robin Crangle from Paisley. They recently installed a new kitchen into their self-built two-storey extension to their 1960’s home and were keen to choose a style with longevity. Jenny says “We wanted a light and soft feel that will hopefully stand the test of time, but at the same time wanted to avoid flat white”. The architect on the project had recommended Copper Leaf Design and having seen examples of their workmanship and examples of finished projects, the couple was sold. We spoke to Jenny about their new kitchen project and the attention to detail which means that although it may be neutral, it’s packed with clever touches that make it unique to them.

“Consider neutral colour palettes such as greys and whites for Kitchen doors that won’t date quickly when trends move on”.

All images: Jenny Crangle

MAY 2021 |

K ITC H ENS

Q&A All images: Jenny Crangle

When was your house built and how long have you lived there? We purchased our house in 2014. It’s a 1960s detached one and a half storey (rooms in the roof), Mansard style property. We’ve since added a self-build extension which has considerably increased the size of the house.

You said you did an extension yourselves; can you tell us a bit more about that? We bought the house intending to extend from the outset. In fact, the estate agent’s sales pitch was, “You could always knock it down and start again”. We initially carried out a complete refurb of the existing house as it had remained relatively unchanged since the 1960s. It was like a time capsule and although retro, it was far past its best. The decor, original fixtures, fittings, wiring, doors, door frames and windows all had to be replaced. More recently we have been building our extension. It’s a two-storey build that almost doubled the overall floor area of the house. The work was mostly been completed by us, with less than 20% of the work carried out by tradespeople. It’s been challenging but we’re delighted with the outcome.

How did you come to use Copper Leaf Design, did someone recommend them? 22

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Copper Leaf came highly recommended by our architect and we were lucky enough to have them build the timber frame for the extension. Having been ex t re m e l y i m p re s s e d w i t h t h e i r workmanship and seeing their previous projects online, we then decided to commission Copper Leaf to build the kitchen.

What was on your wish list for the new kitchen and describe the things you chose. Robin used to work as a chef, and so had strict criteria to make sure the kitchen had function as well as form. This included eye-level ovens, induction hob, strong extraction, walk-in larder, boiling water tap, ample workspace but most importantly he wanted space not only to cook but to entertain guests. For me, it was important to have the fridge, freezer, dishwasher and bins all integrated to make the most of the craftsmanship in the cabinets. I also wanted to combine contemporary and traditional aspects to reflect both of our tastes. We wanted the units to be ceiling height to meet the bespoke cornice to help give the illusion of height. We decided on modern acrylic worktops with a traditional marble vein to compliment the shaker style kitchen. Using this material meant that Copper Leaf could fabricate a bespoke moulded sink that appears seamless within the worktop which we love. One of my favourite little touches was a bespoke chopping board made out of the worktop material that they made for us, with the name of our house inscribed into it.

How did the design process work with Copper Leaf? It was a very straightforward process from start to finish. We gave a design brief to Sam along with a list of the appliances we were buying, and he came back with 3D renders that helped us visualise the end result. He made suggestions that helped make the kitchen look more bespoke in areas we hadn’t even considered. He also managed to incorporate a feeding station for our dog, Willow! Sam made us feel listened to and understood, we were confident he had a good grasp of our vision.

How long did the installation take? The kitchen only took two weeks to install.

What difference has your new kitchen made to your home? We are delighted with the end product, Copper Leaf helped make our vision a reality. For a long time now, we have lived with temporary kitchens or kitchens chosen with a view to selling a house. This time was different, this was truly for us and it has made such a change to our home and life. We welcomed our first baby into our family in September 2020 and having our dream kitchen has made life so much easier. Spending time in our kitchen is now enjoyable and it is easily our favourite room in the house.

K ITCH E NS

Two’s a charm

Image : Second Nature Collection Kitchens

Who says your kitchen cabinetry has to be one colour? Try a contrasting colour on cabinets than your island colour. Or different on upper cupboards than lower. It’s a well-known trick that you can increase the sense of light in an otherwise dark kitchen, to use a paler colour on the upper units. Jessica Inglis from Second Nature Kitchens says, “When choosing the colours for a two-tone kitchen it generally comes down to preference. You could go for a mix of complementary colours, where the shades of the palette flow naturally or if you want to be bolder you could go for a palette that shouldn’t necessarily go together but tie them together with the use of the worktop, a patterned tile, wall or floor colouring.“ Whatever your kitchen style, it’s a clever way to add interest and bring a bit of your personality to the design.

Image: Second Nature Collection Kitchens

Image : Charlton Island

Image: Charlton Island Image: Rational

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Sugar rush Shades of blush are everywhere in kitchens, with the hue cropping up everywhere from tiles to paint, bar stools to glasses and even taps. Use as a small accent colour on a pepper grinder or paint a whole wall to fully embrace the trend. We guarantee it will make your day just that bit rosier. Tinkisso Colour Pop Kitchen Tap Miami Pink, Dowsing & Reynolds - £99.99 www.dowsingandreynolds.com

Nova Kitchen Stool, Dusky Pink 65cm with Brass Legs Cult Furniture - £129 Image: Tile Giant

Set of 4 pink cocktail glasses, Audenza - £48 www.audenza.com

Salt or Pepper Grinder, Kitchen Craft - £4.99 www.kitchencraft.co.uk

Image: Second Nature Kitchens

MAY 2021 |

K ITC H ENS

Island trends It’s official, islands are everywhere and no, we’re not talking about ‘Love Island,’ but the kitchen variety. The benefits are easy to see; if there is space for an island, it can provide extra storage, extra worktop space, not to mention a social place for people to sit and eat in the heart of the kitchen. Often they house the hob or sink, but there are a myriad of different potential uses to discuss with your kitchen designer, we’ve rounded up some of our favourites you might not have considered. 1

Image: Copperleaf Kitchens

Image: Glenlith interiors

1. ATTACHED DINING TABLE A great solution for smaller kitchens. If you don’t have floor space for a separate dining table in a kitchen, attach one to the island for double-duty benefits. Using the same work surface across the island and table results in a large work surface when needed, but a clearly defined dining area with chairs that can fit around three sides when you want to eat, meaning that a separate table is unnecessary.

2. INTEGRATED WINE FRIDGE If you like your vino collection to be served at the perfect temperature (who doesn’t?) then an integrated wine fridge is the ultimate addition to your island. Perfect for socialising at home when we’re finally allowed!

3. FREE-STANDING A great option if you want the benefits of extra workspace and drawers, but don’t want to (or can’t) commit to a permanent location for an island. This option can also give the illusion of more space in the room as you can see the flooring below.

4. SPICE RACK One for the budding Masterchef. House your herb and spice collection in a bespoke rack on the side of the island, so as well as being on display, they are within easy reach. And if you want to add a touch of chilli to your latest gourmet creation while you’re sat on a bar stool tucking in? Easy!

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Image: Kitchen Makers

K I TCHENS

Image: Mereway Kitchens & Bathrooms

Image: Second Nature Kitchens

Image: Glenlith interiors

Image: Wren Kitchens

6. BANQUETTE SEATING If you’d like the added seating an island brings, but don’t have the floor space, a peninsula is the best of both worlds. As it’s attached to cabinetry at one side, no clearance is needed as there would be with an island. So you get the added seating and workspace but within a smaller area.

A n o th e r c l eve r way to g a i n s o m e ex t ra seating and incorporate a more formal dining area at your island is to install banquette seating on one side. Because you don’t need clearance right around the table, this again might be a good option if you feel you can’t fit an island and dining table in your space.

5. OPEN STORAGE

7. WINE RACK

This isn’t just any storage, this is the items that you want to be on show, (so not your tinned beans or half-eaten loaves of bread). An open low storage section on the end of an island is an ideal place to showcase your favourite items; cast iron pots, beautiful chopping boards, stand mixers and other larger objects.

Who says a wine rack should be high up and out of reach? Fill a dead space at the end of an island with bottle storage. A neat solution if your collection of favourite vintages is in need of a new home.

MAY 2021 |

K ITC H ENS

Set in stone The finishing touch, the icing on the cake, the last word; a stone worktop really can make or break the overall impact of a kitchen design. A luxe, well-chosen option can elevate a budget kitchen to punch above its weight. The wrong choice could seriously dent your kitchen’s appeal, no matter how well designed it is. Image Credit: Cosentino

Image Credit: Wren Kitchens

TYPES OF STONE WORKTOP

The three main stone worktop options are granite, quartz and Silestone, with the latter two becoming more and more popular in recent years. The reason for this is that while Granite can vary in colour depending on where in the quarry it was extracted, quartz and Silestone are manmade materials, and as such are consistent in colour. Quartz and silestone are made from 90%-94% natural quartz mixed with resin and colour pigment. The combination of natural quartz and resin gives the worktops a scratch-proof, stain-proof and waterproof surface; and they are extremely hygienic because they are non-porous.

worktop, and that if you keep in mind the slab sizes when designing your kitchen, you will also save money. He says, “The slabs we buy are 3.2m in length by 1.6m breadth. This allows us to produce non-standard sizes, which opens up endless design opportunities. If you have designed your kitchen to have a worktop which is bigger than 3.2m, there will be a join”. With regards to a worktop on a kitchen island, he goes on to say that “you should consider the breadth of your Island. With the slabs being 1.6m, you will get a 900mm Island and a 630mm worktop from one slab, and we can cut the slab so that the veining matches throughout your island and worktop. This is the most professional way of optimising the slab to best suit your design.”

PLANNING STAGES

DETAILS

According to Stuart Noble from Granite Scotland, there are several things to consider when choosing a stone

In terms of colour, “The most popular trend at the moment is marble effect quartz called Carrara and Calacatta”,

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he says “and there is always demand for the ever-popular starlight mirror sparkle colours. Both work well with bright kitchen units as well as dark”. When deciding on the thickness of the slab, think about the end look you are trying to achieve. Stuart says “A slimmer worktop can give you a better, sleeker finish than a 30mm worktop which can look chunkier.” Other things to consider are the types of join, particularly when thinking about an island. “Kitchen Islands with mitred waterfall end panels are trending now. Visually, the mitred join on the end panel is far nicer than the butt join, so If you are having end panels on your Island worktop, insist on mitred end panel joins” he says. Silestone has a range of Silestone sinks that can be integrated into your worktop to produce a seamless finish. When fitted with draining grooves cut into the worktop surface, it gives a beautiful seamless finish with the worktop and sink made from the same material.

On the Shelf Upper wall cabinets in a kitchen design used to go without saying, but open shelving is becoming more and more popular, a case in point being the rise of the ‘shelfie’ (that’s like a ‘selfie’, but a picture of a perfectly curated shelf in case you didn’t know). Ciara McCartney @tinyweehoose from Fort William says of their newly installed open shelving; “Our kitchen is tiny, so wall cabinets were going to be way too big for such a small space. We find it perfect for precious glassware that we’d rather not store in a cupboard, beautiful bits which deserve to be on show, and practical pieces which we reach for every day, like our coffee tumblers and cereal bowls! I love that I have more space for plants in here too, and it keeps the room lovely and light”. Many assume it means extra work cleaning and dusting. Ciara says she doesn’t find this to be the case; “Cleaning the shelves is really not a big deal either - just a wee dust here and there” she says. Mabel Barclay in Edinburgh is firmly against. “I definitely wouldn’t ever have lots of open shelving again as it was time consuming to keep clean, everything like glasses and mugs got dirty quickly if they weren’t used daily and it generally just looked a mess no matter how minimal we tried to make it” she says. So could open shelving work in your own home? We’ve come up with some pros and cons to help you decide.

Image: Stonecraft Edinburgh

Image: Mornington Beaded in Cashmere Second Nature Kitchens

“We have a mix of cupboards and open shelves. Crockery and glasses go on the open shelving but food stuffs, baking items and tupperware go away in the cupboards.” 29

K ITC H ENS

PROS

CONS KI TC H E N S

Added feeling of light and space as upper cabinets can block natural light.

Can mean more cleaning is needed of the objects on the shelf. This is especially true if the shelves are near a hob as grease can build up, even with an extractor fan.

Brings personality to the space w i t h c u rate d d i s p l ays o f favourite objects like ceramics, glassware, plants and even propped up artwork. More cost-effective: shelves are generally cheaper to make and install than full cabinets.

People who aren’t naturally tidy could find that the shelves quickly become cluttered.

Nowhere to keep unsightly items If you are still undecided, perhaps the best solution is to have a mixture of both. Install a couple of open shelves to display and style favourite items, but make sure you also include some closed cabinets so that you can hide less than pretty objects. Allison McKenzie from Glasgow agrees “We have a mix of cupboards and open shelves. Crockery and glasses go on the open shelving but food stuffs, baking items and tupperware go away in the cupboards. I love the shelves, they do need more cleaning but I can pack so much more in than if I only had cupboards.” Even Mabel likes the idea of a mix of both options saying “I think in our new kitchen design we may have a single shelf which we might put an oats jar and copper pan on - but that is something I use every morning and a single small shelf clean shouldn’t be too time consuming!”

Q&A

with Roy from German Kitchen Studio Utility rooms and pantry spaces have enjoyed a boom in the last few years. Whether you are a stickler for cans of soup being in order or just like to hide away the clutter, there’s a solution out there for you. We spoke to Roy Houston, the showroom manager at German Kitchen, to get his take on what makes a great utility room or pantry.

WHAT DO YOU THINK ARE MUST-HAVES IN A UTILITY ROOM? A double bowl sink with drainer, recycling ce n t re a n d wa s h i n g m a c h i n e a re a l l great essentials. We also recommend a spray tap to make cleaning shoes, etc. that much easier.

Image: The German KitchenStudio

WHERE’S THE BEST PLACE FOR A UTILITY ROOM? Right next to the kitchen, but you will know how you use the space already.

WHAT DO YOU THINK IS MORE IMPORTANT, PRACTICALITY OR AESTHETICS? I would say a good balance is key. But overall, practicality takes centre stage in a pantry or utility room.

WHEN DESIGNING A PANTRY, DO YOU HAVE ANY TIPS OR ADVICE? Smart pull-outs are very handy and Schuller have a dedicated pantry and utility range with some impressive storage solutions. There is a tall larder unit with drawers hidden behind them and has to be one of our favourite additions to pantries.

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K I TCHENS

Handle with Care

Image: SNCollection Kitchens

Gone are the days when the hardware choice in a kitchen was a functional afterthought. The choice of knobs and handles in your kitchen design can have an impact far greater than the size of the objects you choose. Choose a design that aligns with the overall style you are trying to achieve in the kitchen. “For a classic kitchen, cup and knob combinations are the one, with the addition of latch handles for a bespoke furniture feel”, says Jessica Inglis from Second Nature Collection Kitchens. ”In contrast, for a sleek contemporary style where uniformity is key; you might want to use a streamline bar or trim handle across the whole kitchen. Keeping it linear and simple with clean lines.” In terms of colour, try using brass to add warmth to a cooler colour scheme, black to bring a punchy accent against a lighter cabinet colour, or perhaps a sleek brushed steel finish to complement a modern design. Rather than thinking that you have to stick with one colour across all the hardware in the kitchen from handles to taps, an increasingly popular look is to mix and match materials. Isabelle McGrail at Armac Martin says “We encourage people to be creative with mixing collections and designs that can complement one another. Finishes can be mixed, both within a handle, like our MIX collection, or with polished nickel handles on a kitchen and brass toned handles on an island for example.” Another growing trend in handles is texture, “The industrial flair of the knurled texture remains popular and has opened the door for other tactile designs including faceted, fluted, and hammered textures” says Jessica Inglis. If you’re struggling to decide on the handles for your new kitchen, buy single samples to play around with placement and proportion as well as checking that the handles compliment your colour scheme. “Traditional shaker kitchens welcome grand, opulent handle designs that tend to be bigger in size. Used on a modern door the same handle would look chunky and clumsy” Jessica says.

Hexagon Knob, Plank Hardware - £5.95 www.plankhardware.com Cup pull Plank Hardware - £9.95

Knurled Handles – Brass Plank Hardware - £8.95

Cup Handle - Antique Cast Iron Cox & Cox -£8.50

Magni Light Leather & Raw Brass Kitchen Door Handles Dowsing & Reynolds - £13.99 www.dowsingandreynolds.com

Accessibility is another often overlooked aspect of a handle choice. Make sure that everyone in the household is able to open your chosen handles. Cup handles tend to suit people with arthritis for example, you should avoid small knobs in this case. Again, a practise with a sample handle before you order them all will help you be sure that your choice will work for all.

4OUR Brushed Gold 4-1 Apex Swan Instant Boiling Water Tap INTU - £749 Signature Modern Boiling & Filtered Water Tap Brass finish Qettle - £985 www.qettle.com

Fusion Round Matt Black, Quooker - £1760 www.quooker.co.uk

The Heat is on One of the most lusted after items in a modern kitchen design is a boiling water tap. These mean piping hot water on demand, but also can dispense filtered water, and some have a function for carbonated. Handy in all kitchens but particularly in those where space is an issue, as it means that you don’t need to spare much-needed worktop space for a kettle. Bear in mind that these have small tanks that fit under your sink, so this will need to be decided at the kitchen-designing stage to make sure there is enough space for this.

4OUR Brushed Copper 4-1 Apex Square Instant Boiling Water Tap INTU - £749 Expression Gunmetal 3-1 Square Instant Boling Water Tap INTU - £399

MAY 2021 |

The Bigger Picture BY LINDSAY DOHERTY

Image: Victoria Mullen

If you love the area you live in and your home, but it just doesn’t work for you in size or layout, then adding a well thought out extension could be the perfect solution, as opposed to simply upping sticks and moving to a new house.

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hysiotherapist Victoria Mullen and her husband Michael have lived in their 1930’s house in Glasgow’s South-side with their two young daughters for six years. In 2019 they added a two-storey extension including a fabulous open-plan kitchen-diner with sliding doors open to their garden. We spoke to Victoria about the project and the impact it’s had on how they live.

Tell us about the purchase of your house and why you then decided to extend it? Victoria says “We had put an offer in on another house, but they were dragging their heels with a move-in date. While we were waiting, this house was reduced in price and popped into our searches. I loved it as soon as I saw it and wanted to make an offer immediately. It ended up going to a closing date, and we got it! Originally the house had lots of rooms downstairs, and some didn’t flow the way we wanted them to. We had an internal dining room which was quite dark, and we didn’t use it much. We also had a conservatory which in summer was like a greenhouse and in winter like an igloo. The house needed some modernisation, but in order to save for the extension, we didn’t want

to spend anything on rooms that would change, so we lived with a pretty dated kitchen for four years.”

What kind of extension did you add? Which rooms have you gained? We decided from the outset that we would like to have a large kitchen/ dining/living area as we’d had that in our previous flat and it worked so well. It meant adding a couple of metres onto the back of the house and opening the kitchen into the conservatory area. The old dining room downstairs became our new hall, and we were able to add hall storage cupboards, one of which is now our boot room, and the other will hopefully become a pantry. Upstairs was a much harder decision. We had two bedrooms and a bathroom with a small annexe to the main bedroom,

which worked perfectly as a nursery. We have two little girls, and neither of our families live in Glasgow, so we liked the idea of having three bedrooms upstairs while keeping a spare bedroom downstairs for family to visit. We considered adding one dormer and making the annexe larger, but the layout wasn’t working without giving us two awkwardly shaped rooms. The cost of a double extension was much higher, so at this point, we did consider moving as house value on the street had risen quite a lot since we bought. We even went to view a couple of houses, but we couldn’t fault our spot in the end. We loved the street, being so close to a lovely park, and having a south-facing garden. By this time we were also very attached to the house, so we decided to go for it and do a double-storey extension. We added two more dormers at both sides and pushed out the back to create a new master and bedroom.

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RH HOME E X T EN SI O N

How did you come up with the design inspiration, and did an architect draw up the plans? We spoke to several architects during the planning stage, but we always felt the designs had too many compromises. We also talked to several building companies that had been recommended, and the prices and advice varied significantly. It was only when we met Jim from our builder Lindmark, that we felt confident in the final plan. He com-

pletely changed our plans, made so much better use of the space, and gave us what we’d asked for all along. We had an internal chimney that the architect was working the downstairs around, but Jim just knocked it down and gave us the space to add an office downstairs which has come in very handy this year!

How long did the work take and did you live in the house while the work was done? In total, the work took around five months. We started in August 2019 and

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finished right before Christmas 2019. Th e b u i l d e r s we re fa n t a st i c a n d allowed us to live pretty normally for the first month until they neeåded to knock through. They gave us a brilliant makeshift kitchen that allowed us to keep living here for most of the build. The girls found it all very exciting, and it wasn’t as stressful as I imagined it might be. When the temporary kitchen had to come out, we decided it would be easier to move out, so we stayed with my sister in law for about three weeks until the new kitchen went in.

pinned up in the kitchen for about a year to help decide.

We’re particularly obsessed with the pink dressing room area. Did you design this yourself?

We love your fabulous new kitchen, tell us about that. Where did you find your inspiration? Who designed and fitted it?

We used one side of the eaves for our nursery before, so I was pretty confident we had the space for a walk-in dressing area, and I’d seen a few inspiring images on Pinterest. However, no one agreed with me; being shorter than most people, I was sure the height would be fine for me, but my husband is 6ft and didn’t fancy a daily head bump. The architect and builders were pretty sure the space was too small. I can still remember the day the new roof space was floored,

I love my kitchen; living with the old one for so many years made it even sweeter. We used a local company, Glenlith Interiors, who designed, supplied and fitted the kitchen. Part of my inspiration for the kitchen came from growing up in a farmhouse with an Aga. It was always the heart of the home, and everyone hung out there, partly because it was the only warm room! I liked the idea of having a faux chimney, so the design started there. I also took a lot of i n s p i ra t i o n f ro m I n s t a g ra m a n d Pinterest. We took a long time choosing the colours and had different colours

and the joiners hung up sheets to create the space. I did a little happy dance when my husband said it would work for him. We didn’t have much of a budget for the finishing touches, so we knew we wouldn’t be able to get a company to build them. I spoke to a joiner who we had never used before, and he just seemed to get all my sketches. we decided the best thing to do would be to use Ikea ‘Pax’ wardrobes as a base and finish around them to give the illusion of them being built in. He also made drawers, and pull-down hatches on the other side to maximise the space.

You’re obviously a big fan of pink as the ensuite is pink too! Tell us about this room. The ensuite was a bit of a bonus room. It wasn’t a must for us, but when we were able to add the office downstairs after the builders removed the chimney, we didn’t need an extra room upstairs, so it became our ensuite. I am pretty glad the way it worked out as it is now one of my favourite rooms. Again, a lot of the inspiration came from Instagram; I loved every pink vanity I saw. We got ours from Parker Howley and Co., who make them bespoke so you can choose any colour you like; this is Sulking Room Pink by Farrow & Ball. I always loved hexagonal tiles, but we already had many patterned floor tiles, so I decided to keep them simple here.

What was your biggest splurge/best saving? I think the biggest splurge was our wood flooring from Surface Plus. We wanted it to feel like it could have been part of the original house, so we went for a reclaimed look parquet in the hall and beautiful long floorboards in the open plan area. The most considerable saving was probably the dressing area and boot room. By doing some of the work ourselves, we kept the cost down and managed to achieve a high-end look for a fraction of the price.

Is there anything you’d do differently next time?

All images by: Victoria Mullen

We learned so much along the way. I can see why people get hooked on continuing to renovate more properties. We renovated this house to be our forever home, and it now works for us, so the main decisions were the right ones. The things we got wrong I stewed over at first, but this year being in the house so much has made me love it even more, and we feel so grateful to have it as our home.

Any future plans for your home or is that it ‘finished’ now? The big plan is to finish off the garden, so we will add a decked area later in the year. We also have a cupboard that will hopefully become a pantry and some finishing touches to the office. We haven’t touched our spare room downstairs; we will tackle that at some stage, maybe next year.

What difference has the extension made to the feel of the home, and how it works for your family? I’m not sure we have realised the full potential of the space yet because of Covid restrictions, but as a family, our day-to-day life is so much easier. We can all be in one room doing our own things but still feel together. We can’t wait until we can have all our family and friends around again and enjoy the space with them. @Making_it_our home MAY 2021 |

NEVADA TEPEE IN BLOOM PINK

Ella James - £140 ellajames.co.uk

SKOGSTA BENCH IKEA - £40

FERGUSON FARMHOUSE BAR STOOL Sweetpea & Willow - £137

STEAL ROUND WALL MIRROR 80CM Garden Trading - £100 www.gardentrading.co.uk

ROUND RATTAN COCOON CHAIR Cox & Cox - £650 www.coxandcox.co.uk

PEDRO 60X40 CUSHION Bluebell Gray - £80 www.bluebellgray.com

VALENTIN MEDIUM SQUARE FOOTSTOOL IN MONSOON BRUSHED LINEN COTTON Sofa.com - £380

| MAY 2021

MAY 2021 |

RH DAR KSI D E

In January last year, husband and wife Antonio and Silvya Palladino bought their first ever home in the city of Edinburgh. Moving in just before the first lockdown hit, the couple got to work transforming the space to be perfect for them, changing the interiors completely from a light to dark colour palette. We spoke to Silvya about why they decided to take the plunge with the dark interior style. Her perspective may even alter how you feel about a dark colour scheme… BY CHLOE FLEMING

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HOW

WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR INTERIOR STYLE? Can I reply, in my own style? Ha ha! Jokes aside, it’s difficult to label my approach to interiors since I’m drawn to different things and styles, so I might carefully say eclectic with a dark, somewhat bold twist?

WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO TURN YOUR INTERIORS FROM LIGHT TO DARK? We had been renting for years and this is our first home. So you can easily imagine that I’ve come to quite deeply dislike safe and dull colours that most landlords seem to be so fond of! It was a no brainer for me to steer clear when it came to choosing colours for our own home. I’ve always been fascinated by bold uses of colours that, contrary to popular belief, don’t necessarily mean turning your home into a gloomy dungeon! They can define and inject some personality in a space if you learn how to play with them. Dark palettes can make a space stand out more. They can create an accent feature or do exactly the opposite, making a less attractive feature disappear or blend in more with other elements. Not to mention, darker colours can make spaces feel warm and cosy.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE THING ABOUT DARK INTERIOR STYLE? The embracing, warm feeling that welcomes me every time I come back home or I retreat into our bedroom. It’s the best.

HOW EASY DID YOU FIND THE PROCESS OF MAKING YOUR HOME DARKER? When we first looked at hiring some decorators, not many we consulted were open to the idea we wanted to go dark. Especially when I told them that I wanted this seamless, ceiling to wall look in our bedroom. Most of them frowned at us or tried to warn us the space would be, well, dark. It was hilarious! Even though it was frustrating trying to battle that stereotype, I can now smile about it. Initially we had some people work for us, but then we eventually learned how to do most of these things ourselves. Now, when someone walks in and looks around and says, “I wouldn’t have thought it, but these colours look great”; I smile at the idea that I might have changed someone’s mind.

MAY 2021 |

RH DAR KSI D E

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE TEXTURES WHEN YOU’RE LOOKING TO BRING DARK COLOURS INTO A SPACE? With darker colours on the wall, I find it really important to play with different accent features, like lighting and furnishing, in order to contrast and balance the overall look. One of my favourite elements to play with has to be brass, which I use here and there as an accent. For example, I’ll use light fittings or accessories and obviously lots of different patterns or plain fabrics. Contrasting colours to either enhance the moodiness of a room or brighten it, depending on the mood I want to embrace or as the season changes.

LIGHT IN A DARK ROOM MUST BE IMPORTANT. HOW DO YOU PICK LIGHTING FOR THE SPACE? Lighting is really important since obviously on a white wall, even the dimmest of bulbs can still brighten a place decently, whereas from a darker wall there’s no light blatantly bouncing back so the placing of light becomes integral. I usually try to pick lights and bulbs that would give me the best of light, without being either too harsh or too gentle. I usually go with light dimmers in order to have control over the mood that the light can create in that space.

HOW DO THE DARKER COLOURS AFFECT HOW PEOPLE PERCEIVE THE SIZE OF THE ROOMS? The geographic position of a room and how many windows it has and the light it gets during the day are still the same whether your walls are light or dark. The only thing that changes is the way you perceive the space. For instance, contrary to what most people think, a poorly lit and small room would stand out even more with a lighter colour on the wall that would make it easier to tell where the confines stand around you. Whereas if you paint the same space dark - this is particularly true if you opt for a seamless look, meaning ceiling, walls and skirting boards painted in the same shade - a curious thing happens. The corners of the room appear less defined and almost disappear, believe it or not. It becomes hard to tell at first sight where the walls end and meet the ceiling, therefore the depth of the room changes around you. It’s like an optical illusion.

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DA R KSI DE RH

DO THE DARKER COLOURS HAVE ANY EFFECT ON YOUR MOOD? Darker colours make me feel at home. And I’m not just saying this because of my aesthetic choices. I feel they make the space cosier and welcoming so I feel a sort of embrace each time I walk into a particular room. This makes me feel calm, relaxed and serene within.

MAY 2021 |

RH DAR KSI D E

IF YOU WERE ADVISING OTHERS, IS THERE A KEY PLACE TO START WHEN TURNING YOUR HOME DARK? I’d say to start from the bedroom. It’s the room we use less during the day, so it makes it easier for people to get used to darker palettes. The bedroom is a space where embracing darkness would also mean better sleep, for example. If it’s your first attempt, it’s definitely the perfect place to eventually try the seamless look (wall, ceiling,

| MAY 2021

woodwork and even radiators in the same shade). I’ve been an insomniac for most of my adult life, and even though I can’t tell you I’m cured and I sleep like an angel every night, I can definitely tell you having a dark bedroom definitely helps me relax and unwind. In other rooms, start playing with bolder and darker colours on accent walls so that the change is less intimidating. We’ve been brought up with this idea that dark colours convey sadness, melancholy, gloominess and therefore using it in your home would mean evoking these very same feelings around you. I dare anyone to give it a

try and see for themselves if it really feels that way. Dark palettes are an amazing way to inject character in a home. They might give you the opportunity to even make the best out of a dimly lit corner! Through my Instagram account I’m trying to promote a new way for people to perceive these colours and be less intimidated by bolder choices in their own homes. If my own gran (who was absolutely confused at first when she heard of my palette choice) says she would never think a room with black walls could be that beautiful and welcoming, I think I just might be headed in the right direction.

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MAY 2021 |

Home is … where the hard work gets done! BY MAIRI CLARK

Nearly half the population had to find a corner to work in at home over the last year when non-essential workers were told to work from home. How do you accommodate a home office without having to Slowly but surely, most of us have had to create an area in the house for work, and unless you have a dedicated room as an office, you’ll likely be perched in a corner of the kitchen, living room or the guest bedroom. There are many ways to fit a practical, liveable solution for having a home office into your home. One that means you can have a clear distinction between work and home life.

Kit out your kitchen It’s easy to commandeer the kitchen table for a weekend of extra work,

but if you’re having to spend the majority of your working week there, it’s just not practical. Papers strewn everywhere, with notes from Zoom calls scribbled in the margins of agendas do not make the basis for a relaxed location for dinner. Nor does having ten minutes to hastily scoop it all up, losing all sense of structure, before spaghetti bolognese gets plonked on top of it. First things first. Look at the size of your kitchen and see where you could possibly fit a desk. If you have enough room, there are plenty of small width desks that you could place in a corner or perhaps in a cupboard that you could repurpose to use with the doors open. As most cupboards are in use, a wall-mounted desk could also solve your issue. There are many areas of the kitchen that are hardly ever in use, so by making use of some wall space, you could secure one of these wall-mounted desks, which means all you need to do is carry your laptop to the desk! If you think that your working situation may only be temporary, there are other solutions.

Credit: Kitchen Workstation Tiverton Range in Bone Wickes POA

| MAY 2021

There are many foldable desks on the market, some that could easily be slotted away when not needed. Utilising a trolley with shelves would allow you to take minutes to get set up for work the next morning.

H O M E O FFI CE

Image: Kitchen Workstation Milton Range in Bone Wickes POA

Buzz Home Office provides bespoke home office and study solutions, especially for homes that have awkward spaces to be converted. Its two ranges ‘Home Hive’ and ‘Beespoke’ - designed for those who want to transform a room into a workable space and also to assist those who have less space to work with, such as an alcove or a cupboard under the stairs.

Living room Creating a space in the living room can be more complicated. The temptation when you have a desk in the living room is that, when the working day has ended, you can still see your workspace so there’s a chance to do that last email.

1. Floating Wall Desk - Wayfair £109.99 2. Wall Desk - Made.com £149 3. Wall desk Mini - La Redoute £85 4. Divider - Homebase.co.uk £90 5. Yukon Pull-out Desk - Daals.co.uk £195.99 6. Hideaway desk - Furniture Village - £499 7. Secretary Desk - Wayfair £75.99

Two ways around that are to create a workspace that can be closed up and put away out of sight. Or it can be left set up but is cordoned off as if it is a separate room. B&Q do an amazing range of room dividers that can be erected permanently and won’t detract much from the decoration of your living room, however, if you want to get fashionable about it, Homebase does a gorgeous room divider that brings the beauty of peacocks into your living room. Another way to have an office that doesn’t look like an office could be to purchase a ‘2-in-1’ desk. Daals.co.uk does a lovely desk that has storage underneath the desktop, so when it’s not in use, it just becomes a piece of

MAY 2021 |

H OME O FFICE

3. Buzz Home Office

the living room or hallway furniture as it looks like a sideboard. Featuring high gloss white panels and a contrasting oak effect veneer frame, the sideboard has two drawers, two cupboards and one extra central shelf. The desktop slides open smoothly, revealing three more compartments for convenient storage.

There is even a choice of what is called a ‘secretary desk’, which has a roll-top that completely covers the desk and hides away all work paraphernalia. This can work well in a living room, hallway or spare room, without looking out of place.

Hallway Have a look at your hallway. You spend very little time there, so there’s space that is rarely used. Think about converting the space under the staircase, into a space to work. The only problem could be the lack of power sources but that can be easily rectified by extension cables or calling an electrician. There is also an option of having a spectacular dresser like this one from The Dormy House. Once work is done, it closes into a beautiful piece of furniture.

| MAY 2021

The spare room Most houses have a box room or a spare room, for family or children visits. They can become junk rooms that are cleared in a panic when a relative arrives unannounced but the rest of the time, they are prime real estate in your home that is being wasted. If you have space, creating a working area here is quite simple. The room is perfect to create an office in, but if you need it set up for 75% of the time, coordinating things around a bed can be tricky. This is where the ingenious wall-bed (also known as Murphy beds), comes in. These became very popular in large cities where property was expensive and space was limited. Wall beds have a beautiful secret. Anyone coming to your home will think you’ve dedicated the spare room to your career as the bed just disappears into the wall.

Michael Downton, sales manager of Wallbeds.co.uk, says that demand has increased in the last year for beds that can be tucked away. “We have seen a large increase in customers requiring multi-purpose rooms over the last year,” he says. “We have also had a lot of customers who have not been able to go on holidays, so have been putting money into home renovations, also those customers who have sold their properties and are downsizing but still need somewhere for visitors.” Wall beds can be supplied to retract vertically or horizontally, depending on the size of the room and the wall condition, but if your walls aren’t suitable, that doesn’t rule out getting a wall bed. “Your wall bed will need to be fixed to a wall, the floor, or both,” says Michael. “You can easily install the wall bed yourself on any type of floor or wall, strong enough to hold the frame in place. Unlike with other systems, with our beds, you have the flexibility of having your bed attached to the wall, the floor or both.”

MAY 2021 |

H OME O FFICE

While the costs of installing a wall bed may seem expensive, most wall bed companies sell the basic spring mechanism that can be used with your existing mattress. “The mattresses we supply are designed to work with wall beds,” says Michael. “What I mean by that is that they are suitable for long-term upright storage, so won’t sag or lose their quality under the weight. Customers don’t have to purchase a mattress from us, many customers use their own mattress. The main dimension they need to check is the depth. Our beds range in terms of the thickness of mattress they can take, which is anywhere from 18cm to 30cm depending on the system.” If your spare room may be used for an extended period, wall beds can be used for every night use, so if you’re in a studio flat but have to work from home, it could be a solution for your weekly work life. The wall bed can be put away with its bed linen on just like a standard bed.

Tips to make the most of space Use walls as much as possible – if you don’t have a corkboard, use a chalkboard or paint a space on your wall with chalkboard paint. Great instead of covering the wall with Post-Its. Try to use the storage in whatever room you’re in. Above the kitchen cabinets, drawers, or bedside tables in the spare room. Save some workspace surfaces in the kitchen, by using pull-out shelves to store your printer, or even better put a wireless printer in another room. Create an under desk storage area by using magazine racks, empty boxes and hide them using a curtain. Before you decide where your workspace is going to be, make sure you have enough power sources for all your equipment. If you don’t have enough plugs, use an extension. Trust us, you will need it! You can always fix your computer monitor on the wall, and gain more space for the keyboard. Make use of an old wine rack to store rolled-up magazines or documents.

| MAY 2021

Can you build it? Yes you can!

Have you searched endlessly for a new house only to find nothing that quite fits the bill?

| MAY 2021

S E LF BUI LD RH

Years ago, that would have been a daunting prospect to most people, but now there are home build kit companies out there, able to hold your hand through the process.

elf-build houses come with the allure of being, essentially, a blank canvas. The design possibilities are endless, as self-builds can be any style you like, whether it’s a contemporary and modern home, or a rustic countryside barn. Budgets can run from the very modest to multi-million pounds. The Wee House Company of Ayr, Scotland was set up by Jennifer Higgins after she struggled to get on the property ladder. Their prices start at a modest £89,000 for a one bed studio home. At the other end of the scale is the sleek German style kit homes like Huf Haus, with their large open plan spaces and vast expanses of triple glazing that can sell at around £500,000.

Most people think of self-build houses as being brick and mortar, but in Scotland, the majority of new houses are timber frame kits with a brick skin. The timber frames give the advantage of being assembled in a matter of weeks, enabling the roof to be added and the structure made watertight very quickly. Timber kits are also flexible and forgiving - allowing you to make some changes as you go along. So what inspires people to self-build and what things should you think about before taking the plunge? We spoke to one family, Martin and Joy Fleming who recently completed their self-build, situated between Kingseat and Cowdenbeath in Scotland. Here’s what they had to say…

BY CHLOE FLEMING

MAY 2021 |

What encouraged you towards doing a self-build? Martin - We wanted a house that had big living areas downstairs but didn’t necessarily mean we had to have lots of bedrooms. Joy - Our children are grown up so don’t live with us full time, however we wanted somewhere they could always come back to and we could still host big family gatherings. At the same time, it needed to be a comfortable space when it was just the two of us. Martin - We designed the house effectively as a one bedroom bungalow downstairs but with guest bedrooms, a study and galleried living room upstairs.

How did you settle on a style for your home? Joy - We both prefer modern and contemporary architecture. As the house was to be built on a farm, a modern twist on a barn seemed the best option. Martin - We spent several years combing through home magazines looking for inspiration. Joy - Pinterest was also an excellent source of ideas and we created our own boards saving what we liked. An architect drew our ideas up for us and we approached Fleming Homes (no relation!) at Duns, Scotland to manufacture our kit. They were amazing and the project really came to life when they got involved.

How did you decide on which contractors/ suppliers to use? Joy - We got so lucky on this. I had recently started a new job and a colleague recommended a builder (Carneil Homes) he had used twice before. We arranged to meet them and liked them instantly. We remained on great terms throughout the project and couldn’t have done it without them.

How did COVID-19 impact the build? Were there any hurdles you had to overcome? Joy - It didn’t affect us but our builder had to work much harder with the delayed supply chain. He often needed to order things many weeks in advance of when he needed them to avoid things grinding to a halt.

Martin - When it came to the windows, we have 3 huge floor to ceiling windows facing west on an exposed site. As a result we knew we wanted to specify

Martin - Fortunately the builder had built up strong relationships with local suppliers for a number of years and that definitely helped him stay at the front of the queue

high quality triple glazed aluminium clad windows from an early point. We met Internorm by Scotia at a homebuilding and renovating show in Glasgow and were delighted with the quality of the product they were selling.

for materials as they arrived.

What was considered a deal-breaker with your self-build? Martin - We wanted a large open-plan, dining, kitchen and living room with vaulted space over it. We loved the idea of everyone being together when we were in the house and not separated into different rooms like we had had in previous houses.

Joy - He has said the cost of some materials has risen over 30% due to Covid.

What was your favourite part of the process? Martin - Watching the kit go up. It made such a big difference in such a small space of time. Joy - We went up every night and couldn’t believe how much progress had been made each day. Fleming Homes had an erection team of 3 men who must’ve been eating their Weetabix in the morning as they never stopped and it was clear they MAY 2021 |

RH SELF BUI L D

How did you settle on the interior designs of each room? Martin - The kitchen caused the most angst (laughing). Joy - We decided early on to go with all white walls to give us a blank canvas. We warmed this with oak doors and balustrades and an Egyptian limestone floor downstairs. Inspiration for bathrooms and the kitchen again came from Pinterest and magazines. We visited many kitchen showrooms as we couldn’t agree on the style for that. Martin - We liked the look of a Schuller cabinet. German Kitchen Studio in Kirkcaldy sell the Schuller range so we made an appointment with them. Eventually we managed to agree on “aqua blue matt” units with imitation knotty oak. Joy - The designer Roy was great. He listened to all the things we wanted in the kitchen and even though we had seen many designs already, he managed to come up with something different. It was the first kitchen we both liked. He recommended Silestone worktops by Cosentino and we would have to say that it’s even better in real life than it was on paper.

How long did the build take to complete? Was this what you expected? Joy - We bought the plot over 3 and half years ago and spent a lot of time initially with the architect and the planning office. Martin - The build itself started in May 2020 and we moved in February 2021. Joy - We had hoped to be in by the end of 2020, but a few last minute delays pushed us back. The bad weather in February meant the landscaping wasn’t done when we moved in. Martin - With the pandemic we thought that was an excellent result!

Did you have any unexpected overruns with your budget? Martin - We decided to spend a little more on feature lighting and a Lutron lighting system as the house seemed like it would benefit from it. Joy - Our limestone floor came in over budget too and caused some of our delays as it got stuck on the boat from Egypt.

What advice would you give to others looking to self-build? Martin - Get your funding in place first and use an experienced builder who understands your vision. Keep in regular dialogue with your builder during the build with regular site visits to keep the decision making easier. Joy - You won’t believe how many decisions had to be made. Martin - Also be patient for planning permission, it comes eventually! Oh and avoid hold ups by pre-empting your decisions, plan ahead so you know what you want to do.

| MAY 2021

S E LF BUI LD RH

Would you ever do the self-build process again?

Joy- Agreed. I don’t think we would ever build another house again, but we haven’t ruled out a granny annexe/studio flat above our garage.

Joy and Martin - No! (laughing)

Martin - We quite like the idea of potentially having a space where the kids can be close to home but that we all have our own space.

Joy - Don’t get us wrong, we absolutely love the house and are over the moon about how it turned out. We were lucky to have such a good relationship with our builders and suppliers which made the whole process easier.

Joy - Or even as a space for my mum and dad to use too! Watch this space!

Martin - Yes, it was just the sheer hassle at the beginning to get planning permission! It took us a lot longer to get than we had expected it would.

MAY 2021 |

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S EL F BU I LD KIT ADVICE

Kit kit and away

BY MAIRI CLARK

Building your own house is a pipe dream for a lot of people but it doesn’t need to be. Want to know how? Read on. Building your own home really comes down to three things: where; money and work! The self-build housing market is estimated to be worth £4.3 billion, according to NaCSBA, the National Custom and Self Build Association’s research in 2020.

Location, location, location “You need to start with a plot,” says Sarah Mathieson, managing director of Fleming Homes. “You often find that prospective self-builders will have sketched out floorplans for their dream home long before they have acquired their plot, but it is essential to have secured this before you undertake the actual design work. That’s because the gradient, orientation, natural landscape and views, neighbouring properties, and local vernacular etc will all have an influence on the design you can achieve.” There are lots of companies and websites selling plots of land. You can also check your local solicitors’ property centre, estate agents or contact local private developers who may have undeveloped land.

Great plans and all that When you have found your plot and BEFORE you buy, make sure you have or can get planning permission. If the plot already has permission, you may be obligated to stick to the design that was already approved. If the plot has planningpermission in principle or no planningpermission at all it may be offered at a cheap price, but tread warily. ºInvestigate the chances of getting planning permission.

Put some structure in place You’re going to have to decide what type of structure you want. Unless you have a ton of cash kicking about, you’ll

| MAY 2021

need to look into a self-build mortgage and for that, you will need a load of paperwork, part of which will be a full design and self-build budget. Sarah advises starting to look into this at the same time as looking for a plot. “We can then help through the planning process to secure detailed planning permission on the design that a buyer finally settles on,” she says. “They may buy a plot with detailed planning permission but wish to change the design to something that better suits their own lifestyle/living requirements.” The actual build and how involved you want to be is your next big decision. “Timber frame package suppliers are great places to start,” says Sarah. “We offer a free design service (only after the plot has been purchased) which is a really cost-effective way to get your project started. It’s a collaborative process whereby we translate the self-builders vision for their home into a practical design.” John McNeely, managing director C H E C K , o f C a r n e i l H o m e s , s ays custom-build houses are the best of both worlds. People can choose their dream house and leave it to companies like his to build. “We can make a house where all you need to do is unpack,” he says. “We can install a quality bespoke kitchen incorporating design elements to suit anyone’s taste. We can arrange to have flooring laid throughout as well as the fitting of window blinds.” At Fleming Homes, everything is offered from the basic shell (where the build is wind and watertight) and then you can get external trade workers in to complete it, through to the ‘turnkey package’ (where everything is done by the one company). “A turnkey package is obviously much less work but costs a lot more,” says Sarah. “ If you buy a house for £300k, that’s what it is worth the day you move in. If you self-build a house and the combined cost of the land and build costs total £300k on average your house will be worth an additional 29% on the day you move in.”

Show me the money Now the fun starts. You have to pay for it. Mortgage lenders will not pay a normal mortgage for a self build. Most self-build mortgages are paid in stages, and no money is paid until the structure is wind and watertight. Some may agree to pay you in advance before each stage starts, so you can afford to buy materials and pay builders. Shop around to find the self-build loan that’s best for your financial situation. Get ready for the paperwork. The lender will want detailed plans, costings and whether planning permission has already been granted. However, the Scottish Government sees self-building as a good thing, so it set up The Scotland Self-Build Loan Fund in 2018. It offers loans of up to £175,000 to help with construction fees for self-build projects in both urban and rural areas. It has just been extended to August 2022. There are a few conditions such as the loan can’t be used to buy the plot but for more information on the fund on the Communities Housing Trust website https://www.chtrust.co.uk/scotland-self-build-loan-fund.html.

Very Attractive Thinking New homes are exempt from VAT for most of the costs of the build You need to check that the type of home you build qualifies for a VAT refund, but most do if built from scratch. Your builder shouldn’t charge you VAT for any work done either because they can claim it back.

For more information on building your own home visit https:// selfbuildportal.org.uk/

MAY 2021 |

MINIMALISM

in interior design features simple, clean lines, uncluttered space with a tight edit of items, and a restrained colour palette. Timeless in style, this look is refined, calming to the eye, and though the pieces are not always cheap, it can be friendly to the wallet (not to mention the planet), as rather than buying into every latest interiors trend, only well-considered pieces are added, sparingly at that.

How comfortable is this style in reality, is it liveable? Self-described minimalist Lorraine lives with her husband in Fife, in a house around 25 years old, with significant remodelling of the interior done over the last five years. She’s a lover of simplicity and a fan of Scandinavian/Nordic design. We asked Lorraine what minimalism means to her and what it’s like to live with less.

BY LINDSAY DOHERTY

| MAY 2021

MINIMALI SM RH

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS TO YOU OF BEING A MINIMALIST? A light and simple interior where everything has its place, for me, makes the space feel so much calmer. Acquiring well-designed, quality items of furniture and decor saves money over time and contributes to less waste, as they are usually made to stand the test of time. It is also worthwhile looking out for second-hand bargains that may just require a bit of refurbishment.

WHO OR WHERE DO YOU LOOK TO FOR MINIMALIST STYLE INSPIRATION? Previously I would endlessly browse interior design books, in particular those of modern Scandinavian design. Although this is something that I still do, I now find Pinterest and Instagram to be excellent resources. Holiday homes are also an excellent source of inspiration.

HOW DO YOU DEFINE MINIMALISM – WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO YOU AND HOW DO YOU APPROACH THIS IN YOUR HOME? Minimalism to me is a pared-back style, restricting possessions to what is necessary and meaningful. Unfortunately, this can be perceived as cold, sterile and quite bare. However, it doesn’t have to be like that. I would describe my style as soft minimal, which, although simple and decluttered, uses soft tones and textiles to add warmth to the scheme.

MAY 2021 |

RH M INIM A L I SM

WHICH ARE YOUR GO-TO RETAILERS/BRANDS FOR MINIMALIST INTERIORS PURCHASES? My go-to retailer is Bo Concept Scotland I have worked with Eilidh Hunter from the Glasgow branch on a couple of projects recently. She knows our style well, and the outcome has always been very positive. I also enjoy a visit to Hoos in the West End of Glasgow. In terms of brands, my favourites are Ferm Living , Hay, Pholcand Cooee; all Nordic brands. I like to support small businesses as much as possible, Goscandi, The Particular People and Collective-Stories , to name but a few. I try to source products in the UK as much as possible but order direct from Scandinavian countries when needed.

ARE THERE ANY AREAS IN YOUR HOUSE THAT ARE NOT MINIMALIST? It is a work in progress, so there are a couple of rooms still to go! Covid has impacted the progress over the last year, which has been a bit frustrating. The ideas are there and just waiting to be put into practice when safe to do so.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY ARE SOME WAYS THAT PEOPLE CAN BECOME MORE MINIMALIST IF THEY ARE NOT ALREADY? Keep things clutter-free; I love a sideboard! White or soft muted tones lend themselves to a minimal interior. Sticking to a similar colour palette and flooring throughout the home works well, adding a sense of flow between rooms. The use of natural materials such as wood, wool and linen bring warmth. Invest in a few statement pieces that stand the test of time. @scandiandme

| MAY 2021

3 1

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MAY 2021 |

PRIN ACCETS, COLO SSOR UR, H O I E M S Y! Ove , top

rt in stay a teriors are he has ta nd maxim here to minim ken over alist f our g alism. He rom re is uide your t home o making BY Z EXTR OE JO A MA HNST X! ON

MAX IMALI SM RH

For years minimalism has been king and clutter has become some sort of a swear word. But long gone are the days of monochromatic grey rooms that look like they’ve been plucked straight from a black and white movie. MAXIMALISM is back. While many may think maximalism and instantly envisage their granny’s 1980’s living room, it has come a long way from twee floral sofas and interiors that look like they’ve come straight from an episode of Hoarders. Think more clashing colours, bold prints, expertly placed accessories and interiors that look like a Gucci show come to life. Gone are the days of neutral soulless spaces. Long live maximalism! A h o m e s h o u l d re f l e c t yo u r personality, this is where maximalism really shines, it is the perfect way to show off who you are. Wilko printed leopard cushion - £8

Whether you want to show your fun personality through bold neon colours, your fierceness through leopard print, or even your cheeky side with amusing accessories, maximalism lets you show it all. No one has ever walked into a m a x i m a l i st ’s h o m e a n d thought “what a boring person they are’’. While a maximalist home shows a ton of personality, a minimalist home in comparison almost looks like an art showroom with invisible ‘no touching’ signs everywhere. As Revi, a maximalist who runs The Girl with the Pink Door on Instagram, says “I want to feel that I can relax in someone’s home, not that I’m messing it up just by sitting there”. When guests come to a maximalist home, they know they are in for a good time and there’s no worry of creating a mess. They can easily make themselves comfortable and at home on the sofa which is most likely adorned with hundreds of colourful cushions. Rockett St George Gol Palm Leaf Tree Floor Lamp - £595.00

MAY 2021 |

Extraordinary Interiors in Colour by Lucy St George and Jane Rockett, published by Ryland Peters & Small (£19.99), Photography by Catherine Gratwicke © Ryland Peters & Small

RH M AXI M A L I SM

Think of maximalism like you are curating a museum with a bunch of different pieces from various eras that all come together to form a collection, an organized chaos some may say. Maximalist Master Lucy St George, co-founder of interiors company Rockett St George, advises that there are no rules for maximalism and “the more creative, crazy and colourful your home is, the better!” While there are no rules, there is a method when coordinating a maximalist home (though it might not seem like it) and placement is key, furnishings have probably been moved thousands of times to see what looks best where. Clashing colours are the easiest way to incorporate maximalism into your home. If you’re bold enough to go for bright neons or softer shades of pastel, an injection of colour is the first step into introducing maximalism into your home. Lucy St George advises using “a block colour on the walls and then add brighter colours, textures and drama.” Revi from @the_girl_ with_the_pink_door_ loves to clash colour and pattern but “makes sure there is a base colour that links the room together & repeats” to keep her rooms coherent.

While maximalism is known for its colourful accents it’s also easy to create a maximalist environment with more earthy tones if you aren’t quite brave enough to go all out neon. Lucy uses personal art prints, plants and vintage finds in her study to create a maximalist feel in the light and bright space. When it comes to finding inspiration for maximalist interiors, Amanda who runs the uber cool Instagram @maximalist.interiors says she finds it “Everywhere! Movie sets, vintage interiors, Instagram, nature. I think you can find inspiration in most places, from colours to shapes and textures.” Her home is filled with interiors in bold pastel colours reminiscent of a Wes Anderson movie. Amanda was always drawn to bright and bold colours, which show lots of personality, which is why maximalism is the interior style for her. While she loves minimalism, she just couldn’t manage it in her house, she likes to see her personality shine throughout her home.

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Oliver Bonas Printed Happy Beaded Cushion - £29.50

Inspiration for maximalism comes from all around and maximalisms’ influence can also be seen all around. Whether it be the runways of Gucci, the pastel pink tables at Sketch, a restaurant in London which is essentially a maximalist’s dreamland, maximalism is everywhere. Watching interiors show Interior Design Masters, it is clear to see maximalism is at the forefront of home decor right now and has no plans of leaving anytime soon. While maximalism is an interior trend there are also trends within maximalism. Lucy St George tells us that this year’s maximalism trend focuses on embracing vacation vibes. “Designed to help boost your mood as soon as you set foot through the door, this trend celebrates colour, pattern and glamour in abundance. From vivid colours and the return of neon, to the rise of tropical patterns, this trend is a maximalist’s dream.” A trend that Revi loves is gallery walls as “it’s a great way to mix things up. Art is whatever you like I have some tattoo artwork that my friend gave me mixed with music

Habitat Agra Leopard Candle Holde - £10

Cult Furniture Bronte 2 Seater Wingback Sofa Velvet Upholstered Leopard Print - £399

prints, local artist picture or the kids drawings, o even some of my own albeit not very good, but they make me smile so that’s what matters” While Amanda of @maximalist.interiors doesn’t like to follow trends, she loves whenever things she loves become “on trend” as it means there’s always loads of options. She says, “I’ve always had a thing for shells so when they were on trend last year, I grabbed myself an oversized shell cushion and every time I see it, I get a little spark of joy.” Whether you go all out maximalism with a room full of clashing colours or a small gallery wall filled with striking prints, it’s easy to bring maximalism into your home. Maximalism can also be done on the cheap, whether you are an upcycler, a vintage lover or a ready-made devotee, there are plenty of options. B&M have a great range of decorative accessories that can add a touch of opulence to any home while still sticking to your budget.

MAY 2021 |

Charity shops have a great selection of items which you can easily upcycle with a lick of paint to fit in with your home. Annie Sloan’s range of Chalk paints add a hint of vintage glamour with their velvety matte finish available in a range of bold and bright colours perfect for upcycling pieces to give them a maximalist vibe. It is clear that maximalism is not just an interior trend but a lifestyle. It oozes personality and playfulness. While it might not be to everyone’s taste there is no denying that maximalism brings a sense of joy and adds character to a home. There are plenty of ways to bring maximalism into your space, through colour, pattern, lighting or wall art. It also doesn’t have to cost loads, upcycling vintage items in bright colours and patterns is an easy way to introduce maximalism into your home and there are loads of inexpensive options out there if you aren’t up for a DIY project. While it is easy to i n co r p o ra te m a x i m a l i s m i n to a minimalist space, the same cannot be said for incorporating minimalism into a maximalist space, I mean where would everything go? So, when it comes down to it, is there really an argument for minimalism? I mean who would want a lifeless, clinical looking home when you could have an exciting, bold and charismatic space which oozes glamour. Less is always bore so take it to the max!

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1. OK ONE MORE PRINT Rocket Jack - £20

2. ‘GOOD TIMES AHEAD’ TYPOGRAPHY PRINT Places and Space Art Co - £20

7. LEOPARD DESK AND TABLE LAMP Oliver Bonas - £135

8. BOLD MONKEY IT’S A WILD WORLD BABY PANTHER RUG CUCKOOLAND.COM - £299

13. VITA OSTRICH FEATHER TALL TABLE LAMP

9. LEOPARD VASE

Audenza - £195

Lime Lace - £15

Audenza -£62

4. MIRROR DISCO BALL

10. FLORA SCALLOPED VELVET ARMCHAIR

14. DUSTY ROSE - MINI FEATHER LAMP, BRONZE BASE

3. TO THE DISCO POSTER PRINT

Etsy – from £9.96

5. LEOPARD METALLIC ANIMAL WALLPAPER Black Gold I love Wallpaper- £20

6. BRIDE AND WOLFE GOLD LIGHTNING BOLT MIRROR Antipodream -£65

Oliver Bonas - £395

Sweet Pea and Willow - A Modern Grand Tour - £2400

11. GOLD LEAF SCULPTURE ON STAND Wilko - £6

12. GLORIOUS GOLD PEACOCK Joe Browns - £30

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MAY 2021 |

M INIMAL I SM | MAX IMA L I SM QUI Z

How minimalist are you?

Image: Snug Sofa

Take our light-hearted quiz to find out where your interiors style falls in the range between super pared-back minimalist, and full-on ‘more is more’ maximalist. And see which living room style would suit you. 1. HOW MANY DIFFERENT COLOURS OF PAINT OR WALLPAPER DO YOU HAVE ON THE WALLS IN ROOMS THROUGHOUT YOUR HOUSE: a. One or two, plain painted wall. No wallpaper for me, it’s too fussy. b. Three to five colours with a mix of painted walls and the odd feature wall of wallpaper. c. Every single room is a different colour, with lots of wallpaper on all four walls in a room.

2. YOUR BEDSIDE TABLE: a. Is clear with only a lamp for decoration. b. Has a lamp, an alarm clock and perhaps a glass of water or a book. c. Is covered in curated clutter, not an inch is visible.

3. IF YOU SEE A PATTERNED CUSHION ON TOP OF A DIFFERENT PATTERN OF BEDDING DOES IT: a. Bring on a slight headache, it’s too much for your eyes to take. b. Work if the patterns are quite subtle and the colours work well together. c. Make you want to jump for joy and add more because why not?

5. BOOKS SHOULD BE: a. Limited to one or two favourite design books artfully displayed. b. On bedside tables or anywhere else you’d want to read them. c. Gloriously overflowing on a bookshelf organised by colour as decoration.

6. AN ANTIQUES SHOP IS: a. Mostly a nightmare unless they stock mid-century items and even then it would need to be that perfect piece I’ve been considering for years. b. Interesting for a wander. If something jumped out at me and I have space for it I might buy it, but I’d usually just browse. c. Heaven, full of treasure just waiting to be collected, upcycled and added to my collection of stuff, I’ll squeeze everything up to make space.

7. WHAT ARE THE INSIDE OF YOUR KITCHEN CUPBOARDS LIKE? a. Hyper organised, all foods are decanted into individual matching containers with a label . b. In their original packaging but grouped in sections of items e.g. all pasta together. c. Spilling out of the doors, nothing is organised, who has time for that?

8. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON A GALLERY WALL? 4. WHO DESIGNED THE CLASSIC BARCELONA CHAIR?

a. Perhaps, if the pictures are a similar colour and a matching frame, and not too many of them?

a. Mies van der Rohe.

b. They look good, I have a small one with photos of my family.

b. John Lewis.

c. My whole home is like a gallery wall, all different colours and styles of artwork and prints, all the frames are different.

c. The what?

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A Image: Snug Sofa

M O S T LY ‘A ’s If your answers were mostly ‘a’ then the word minimalist was defined with you in mind. You come out in a panicky feeling if there are too many colours and patterns in a room. A limited scheme of neutrals like grey, black and white make you feel calm and soothed. You have an encyclopeidic knowledge of Scandi brands and invest in classics that will stand the test of time. You don’t waste money on trends that will quickly go out of style. A living room with a restrained colour scheme, architectural shapes and upright furniture will suit you to a ‘t’.

B Image: Loaf.com

M OS TLY ‘ B ’ s If you answered mostly ‘B’ then you are all about balance. You don’t like to have too much clutter or too many different colours, but you also don’t want to feel like you live in a show home or a sterile box. You like your home to feel comfortable and lived in, with some of your personality on show, but not to an over-whelming extent. A comfortable living room with a soothing palette of tonal colours, soft and welcoming furnishings and personal items would be just the thing for you.

If you scored:

Image: Woodchip & Magnolia

M O S T LY ‘C ’s Wow, pass the dark glasses, you are maximalist and proud! You simply cannot have too many different colours and too much pattern, they bring you happiness so why should you stop! Any blank wall or empty space just screams at you to fill it, which you do with joyful abandon. A living room with highly patterned wallpaper, multiple contrasting colours and textures would be right up your street.

MAY 2021 |

IN TE R IO R DESIGN MAST ER S

BY MAIRI CLARK 72

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If ever there were stand-out stars of Interior Design Masters, it had to be the duo of Siobhan Murphy and Paul Moneypenny. Immediately from the first show, the two became firm friends and even when Paul was voted off the show, Siobhan made sure her pal was there for her finest moment when she made it to the final. We chat to both of them about the whirlwind experience of being on the show.

Siobhan Hannah Murphy is a force to be reckoned with. She’s bright, bubbly and – let’s be honest – a wallflower would never be used to describe her. She gained thousands of followers on her Instagram account purely through her incredible outfits on Interior Design Masters. But what is she really like? In reality, Siobhan is a 42-year-old ex-fashion student, who has spent the last 18 years working for the NHS, a job she has only recently given up following her TV stint. However, despite her confidence on screen, like every other person, she experienced nerves before the show filmed. “I would like to think I’m a fairly confident person but I have to say I did have a bit of imposter syndrome on that first day of filming, looking around thinking these people are all so confident,” Siobhan says. “Am I going to be good enough? I loved the filming part of the show it was really exciting, I basically had a crash course in interior design and TV at the same time and I enjoyed every minute. I don’t think I was ever massively conscious of the cameras at all, probably because I was usually so busy with the makeovers!” MAY 2021 |

During the show, the contestants were set tasks ranging from homes to restaurants to salons, something Siobhan loved. “It was so good to work on commercial briefs and have a budget and a team of trades to allow my vision to come to life,” she says. “For amateur designers to be able to work on projects such as offices, shops, show homes and hotels was an absolute dream and getting feedback from some of the top names in the industry was just incredible. Designing the hotel room was one of my favourite weeks and I felt that scheme was so successful. It had a sense of timeless luxury to it and a real Hollywood glamour, which I think is my signature style.” S i o b h a n ’s ex u b e ra n t p e r s o n a l i t y matched her to fellow contestant Paul Moneypenny. The Belfast-born, self-styled Wallpaper King quickly bonded with Yorkshire-born Siobhan. “Paul and I had such a strong bond right from the very first day, I knew we would

| MAY 2021

become great friends,” she laughs. “I didn’t win, but you know what I feel like I did win. I got to spend four months last year doing something that I absolutely LOVED with a great bunch of people, and it was the best thing that I ever did! I also met a very special, and I mean VERY special friend in Paul. I am so proud of how it all came together and for me, it just shows how far we both came throughout the competition!” The pressures of lockdown were bad enough, but Siobhan was working in her normal job as well as appearing on the show. “Working 4 days a week in my day job on our sourcing weeks was tough and it meant most of my design work and sourcing had to be done on an evening,” she says. “There was a lot of very long days and evenings travelling around in the rental van picking up things I had bought from online selling sites. Some of the show was also filmed during the full lockdown, which meant no shops

were open. I had to rely a lot on getting things in the post, it was always a relief when the post came that’s for sure!” Being a bit of a bargain hunter helped Siobhan, as the budgets were always tight. “I think that just made me even more creative,” she says. “I was always thinking, ‘how can I get that look for a fraction of the price?’ I can often visualise something that other people may just see as junk. It also helped that we had fabulous trades that could help bring our designs to life. I spent a lot of time looking at local online selling sites, there are so many bargains to be had and it’s also nice transforming something that may have ended up in landfill into something fabulous and bespoke.” Siobhan got into interior design after studying fashion in the 90s, and after buying her first house at 21, it sparked her interest. “I truly believe that how we dress and how we decorate our homes are an extension of our personalities,” she says. “I remember my first house and

I N TE R I O R D E S IGN M AST ERS painting each room in really bright colours! The kitchen was red and orange, and the bedroom was shocking pink. I have always been pretty bold in my designs! I have tried a lot of colours and styles since then. I learn the most by trying out new things and experimenting.” Home is a 1930s converted GP practice where she lives with her lawyer husband Nick and their ragdoll cat Benji. During lockdown, her ‘tower room’ where she created a fantastically glamorous bar/ lounge area, came into its own. “Someone once described my house as ‘Escape to the chateau’ on acid and I think that sums it up perfectly,” she laughs. “It’s modern Art Deco with a few surprises. I absolutely love Art Deco but I am influenced by many styles and I don’t feel the need to commit to only one style. I like to mix things up and choose things that interest me or things that are just incredibly beautiful. Her cocktail bar started with the purchase of a vintage 1970s bar that she bought online. “I painted it pink and added gold leaf accents and a hard-wearing resin top,” she says. “I then painted the entire room in the most delicious pink colour aptly named ‘Get Plastered’ from Dowsing and Reynolds!”. The bespoke curved shell back banquette seating was designed by Siobhan and made by a local upholster. The finishing touch was a bespoke whitepeacock mural designed by artist Daniel Bland “I think because of lockdown and not being able to go out with friends I started really enjoying date nights in the tower room that I have turned into a little pink cocktail bar. It’s nice having a space that is totally dedicated to fun and of course, there is a lot of pink in there which always makes me happy! As always though, I am thinking it needs a bit of pattern in there and have been contemplating wallpapering the ceiling. And, of course, the drinks are plentiful! No single measures allowed, there’s no queuing at the bar and we can listen to our own playlist. Although with Nick being a heavy metal fan that doesn’t quite work for me! But there’s no waiting around for taxis at the end of the night!” In case anyone was in any doubt, Siobhan is a big fan of the maximalist trend. “I’m just not a trend follower, so I honestly never really look at interior trends or the next season’s colours,” she says. “I am definitely a maximalist at heart. Pattern, colour, texture ”– I can’t get enough! For me, more is more always!” Being around the designer judges was something Siobhan loved, but she’s been

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a fan of interior designers for years. “There are so many designers that I adore,” she says. “I’m massively in awe of Jonathan Adler and I just love some of the joyful and chic schemes he designs. Dorothy Draper and Tony Durquette were pioneers of maximalism in their day and modern-day maximalists such as Sophie Robinson, Luke Edward Hall, Abigail Ahern and Martin Bullard are all hugely inspirational. Meeting the expert judges was great, Lawrence Llewelyn Bowen has always been an idol of mine ever since Changing Rooms back in the 1990s so it was amazing to meet him and get feedback from him too. I’m a huge fan of Mathew Williamson too and we had a chat about the transition from fashion into interior design. Meeting Sophie Robinson felt like I was reunited with a long lost friend we totally bonded over our love and passion for joyful and colourful interiors.” So, what can we expect from the maximalist queen now? “I have a few things on my wish list,” she says. “I’m planning on doing some commercial interior design, a magazine column, my own product line and some more TV work. I’ve got some exciting things coming up so watch this space, I think 2021 is going to be my year. “I think the thing I love most about interior design is that whole process of transformation,” she says. “Taking something that is bland and uninspired and turning it into something different just really excites me. I believe that the spaces we live in can have such a positive impact on our moods and well-being. I like to think I create spaces that bring people joy and that they love to spend time in.” @interiorcurve

I N TE R I O R D E S IGN M AST ERS

A shy guy with

big designs

The characters in this year’s Interior Design Masters were all great personalities, but Belfast contestant Paul Moneypenny brought a flair of his own to the show. The 32-year-old shot to notoriety in his hometown nearly five years ago when the local newspaper was tipped off that the fanatical interior design fan would go all out at Christmas. Known for putting thousands of lights throughout his house nearly three months before Christmas, in 2019, his popularity grew when he accumulated six Christmas trees, including an upside-down one in his Belfast house! Nobody should have been surprised when the art college graduate was picked to be one of the nine that made it onto the BBC’s Interior Design Masters show, however, he was. “I saw the first series a few years ago and watched each episode a few times,” he says. “I remember thinking how lucky the contestants were to g e t t h e c h a n ce to s h owc a s e their individual style and I always thought if they were doing season two, I was going to apply.” He regrets not spending more time on the application, admitting he ‘must have underestimated himself’. “I could have really taken my time and sold myself to them,” he says. “I was surprised two weeks later to receive the call for the initial casting stage.” It took a few months of mood boards, and Zoom calls before he got the dream call that he was on the show. As manager of Noblett’s, one of his city’s premier wallpaper shops, it was no shock he was given the title of Wallpaper King on the show. “My background is wallpaper of course and I think it’s my comfort zone as it’s what I have the most knowledge in,” he says. “I think it’s the effect that it can have on a space as it is very versatile and can be used in most spaces. I always love how a few rolls of wallpaper

can add impact and texture quickly and it can also be removed and changed whenever you get tired of it. I always tend to pick my wallpaper first especially if I am using a pattern and then take my colour scheme from that.” Paul has had an interest in interior design from a young age. His love of Christmas came from his parents’ encouragement to allow him to have free reign in the house’s Christmas décor. Even his bedroom décor was allowed his input. “I have always loved art and design and have clear memories from a very young age having an opinion on interior design; even when it came to the redecoration of my bedroom,” he says. Even to the point of going to his future employer! “I always had to have the last say on the choices and colour,” he says. “I remember going out to Noblett’s (where I now work) and loving that whole world of pattern and vivid colours. I would often be asked to help and give advice to friends and family when they were making home improvements and it became a much-loved hobby and now a career!” Inspiration for his designs come from everywhere – travelling around Europe, Pinterest and celebrity designers on Pinterest. “Sometimes one statement or simple item of homeware or a piece of clothing can spark a whole creative idea,” he says. “I often come across inspiration when I’m not looking for it. Pinterest is good too. I tend to screengrab everything on my phone and add the images into files so that I can refer back to them easily.” Despite his confidence on the show, Paul admits to being very nervous. “I was putting myself into the unknown and I was feeling far from confident,” he says of the first day of filming. “I remember filming my arrival scenes walking into the design hub in London MAY 2021 |

IN TER IO R DESIGN MAST ER S

and thinking “what am I doing?”.I felt so out of my comfort zone that I went very quiet and then panic set in that there was no going back. After the initial shock of being followed by a camera crew for 12 hours a day had settled, I started to just ignore the fact I was being watched and just get on with the tasks.” One thing that hampered Paul was the restrictions caused by Covid. Northern Ireland was in stricter lockdown than everywhere else so the short timescales the contestants had were even shorter for him. “As I was flying back and forth each week to and from Belfast, I had 2 fewer prep days out of my week than the other designers,” he says. “I was trying to design, source and purchase items for my designs for the following week. At times, I felt like I was fighting twice as hard to just buy regular items that we all take for granted. Northern Ireland was on a strict lockdown before other areas of the UK so it was stressful trying to design and have all the elements ready to ship to London in 5 days.” Of all the challenges, Paul’s favourite was episode 6, Salon Week. “I was teamed up with Lynsey Ford who was the winner!” he says, still excited. “I remember being so excited about the brief as I adore having weekly hair appointments and the fact that the business owner wanted to bring the outdoors inside was right up my street Lynsey and I really worked well together and elevated each other’s ideas. I also learnt so much from Lynsey that week as we both had different skill sets. I think looking back at photographs it would be the space that would best resemble my style.” Part of Paul’s journey on the show was the contacts and friends that he made. His interaction with our other interviewee, Siobhan, was great to watch. As both lovers of maximalist style, they were in sync from the beginning, but still, Paul learnt from her. “At times, when I was doubting myself, she would always be pushing me on,” he says. “It was always pointless asking her “is this too much? One of the main things that Siobhan helped me with was my confidence for not only my design but to be myself and wear what I liked. Every week I would get pictures of different wacky suits that she would be telling me to buy and wear in the studio.”

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Despite being voted out in episode 7, narrowly missing out on the final, he was chosen by Siobhan to come back and help her in the final challenge. “Siobhan made my dream come true by bringing me back,” he says. “For me, it was never about the win, it was all about getting to take part in every design brief and I got to fulfil that. Not only did Siobhan and I have great fun and get to spend a week in a luxury villa in Cornwall but we got to let loose and choose interiors that we both loved. I felt honoured to be brought back as there were 7 other designers that she could have picked. I worked so hard that week as if it was me in the final. I wanted to do everything I could and more to help Siobhan create her fabulous design!” Paul’s favourite takeaway from being on the show, despite not winning, was the learning experience from fellow designers and also from the judges. “I have learnt so much from each of them including carpentry, upholstering techniques, styling tips and even lighting,” he says. “It was such a lovely experience to meet 9 other people with the same passion and interest for interior design that I have. We all seemed to click from the very first episode and even though it was a competition it sometimes didn’t feel that way. It was like a crash course master class with all the best in the business when I got to meet the experts.”

Although applications have now closed for the next series of Interior Design Masters, it allowed Paul to move closer to achieving his dreams, something he thinks other aspiring designers should embrace. “Instead of seeing my ambition as pipe dreams, the show has allowed me to view them as very real possibilities, and there’s nothing more exciting than that!” he says. “My advice to anyone is to not hold back and go for it! Taking part in the show has allowed me to push myself out of my comfort zone and to learn other skills I did not think I could do. The platform it has given me has been fabulous and allowed me to share my skills and passion to inspire other designers. I have also had a boost in my confidence as a designer and now feel that I don’t want to hold back any longer, I had so many issues with self-belief and second-guessing myself and now my experience on the show has helped me overcome that.” Unsurprisingly, Paul’s ideal space to design would be in the over-the-top, maximalist place itself, Las Vegas. “I would love to design an over the top suite or casino in somewhere like The Venetian Hotel [in Vegas],” he laughs. “I love everything about the bustling atmosphere and dazzling lights that I could go crazy with an unlimited budget.”

The show’s presenter, Alan Carr, is a personality to be dealt with, but Paul adored working alongside him as he put all the contestants at ease with his wise-cracking humour.

His favourite accounts on Instagram are Sophie Robinson and Matthew Williamson who he got to meet on the show when they appeared as guest judges.

“Alan Carr was an absolute gentleman!” laughs Paul. “From the very start, he was always there with some light-hearted

@money.pennyinteriors

humour to break the nerves and tension. I love to have fun and giggle and I think it showed on camera. Every time Alan would arrive into one of my spaces, the production team knew that it was going to be an absolute laughing session. We seemed to be able to bounce our humour back and forth, and even off-camera Alan was always very supportive and interested in what we were doing.” While Paul’s still loving his job at Noblett’s and has no plans for any career change, he’s hoping the wallpaper connection will allow him to reach his dream to design a line of wallpaper with his name on it. “I love my job too much,” he says. “I’d like to focus on creating my brand and to provide a full interior design service. I am also hoping to work more in the soft furnishing end of design and perhaps look at creating my own cushion line – I do love a good karate chop on a cushion!” MAY 2021 |

H OME B ARS

Raising the Bar BY ZOE JOHNSTON

Built in bar- @cottonofclaire

With bars only being allowed to open until 10pm many of us have resorted to bringing the bar to our homes so we can party all night long. Whether you go all out with a freestanding bar, a classy drinks cabinet or a vintage bar car there’s loads of options to fit any space and budget. 80

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Mirrored bar- Rocket St George HO M E B ARS smart lighting that shines through the bottles to brighten the space. She also added a large mirror to reflect more light into the space. “For the practicality of it, we wanted both a beer fridge and wine fridge. Initially we went for a double beer fridge then realised it really wasn’t needed, so we swapped it out for a single fridge and installed an ice machine instead which was a great addition.” Claire tells us she loves her home bar so much they’re in the progress of adding a second bar outdoors in their garden

definitely the best option if you love entertaining (when we can) and if you find yourself mixing cocktails regularly!

CONVERTED ALCOVE Unsure what to do with the alcove in your tenement? Make it a bar of course! Lorna McClafferty on Instagram has made perfect use of her alcove, she

FREESTANDING BARS A freestanding bar is ideal for those who know how to have a good time. You will most likely find them at their bar every weekend. Having a freestanding bar is a dedication as it can take up a lot of room within your home, but it is certainly worth it if you find yourself mixing cocktails often. A freestanding bar is the best way to feel like you’re at your favourite cocktail bar with the bonus of being only a short walk to your bed when you’ve had a few too many.

We spoke to Claire on Instagram who converted the mezzanine area in her gorgeous steadings home to a bar. “We are a very sociable family, so it was the perfect addition to our home.” She tells us. Claire especially found her home bar useful during the covid pandemic, telling us “It’s absolutely a more sociable space, especially in our current climate we use our bar to create the weekend experience which I feel we all crave so much. We regularly use it for having family and friends Zoom calls and where we are right now, it’s as close to having a night out as possible.” Claire decided against optics instead going for a more contemporary feel with shelving for the bottles and ambient Alcove bar- @laffsgaff

as “We can’t wait to be able to share more time enjoying it with our friends and family again.” There is a great selection of home bars available whether you opt to get a bar built in or you can opt for a bar table. Rockett St George’s Mirrored bar table from their Pikes range is inspired by the iconic Freddie’s bar in the iconic Ibiza hotel making it the ideal choice for an all-night party! A freestanding bar is

told us “Like many Scottish Victorian homes, most of the rooms in our house have an “Edinburgh Press” and we wanted to make maximum use of this amazing feature. We painted the wood dark green, applied Art Deco vinyl, installed glass shelving, spotlights and sourced some clear display stands. The finishing touch was a gold wire word bar sign and now we have no excuse to enjoy a cocktail or two during lockdown.” Lorna has made perfect MAY 2021 |

Drinks cabinet- Essential home H OME B ARS use of the space and has given it a perfect vintage feel. You can even take your converted alcove a step further and include a built-in wine fridge or a wet bar sink in your conversion, to make your bar really chic! A converted cupboard also lets you showcase your bottles and glasses (and don’t worry we won’t tell anyone if you refill your pretty gin bottles with an Aldi special).

DRINKS CABINET Take it back to the 30’s and 40’s with a drink’s cabinet. There are loads of drinks cabinets on the market or you can even just convert a sideboard or console table. A perfect addition to any living room or dining room, a drinks cabinet is a great option if you hate clutter as you can hide away all your bottles and bar tools. If you are keen to bring Mad Men vibes to your home, a drinks cabinet is the perfect addition with many mid-century modern styles available. A drinks cabinet is also great if you want to hide away any of your fine bottles of alcohol. Simply place the bottles you don’t mind people drinking from towards the front or placed on top of the cabinet to distract!

Drinks trolley gold- next home

BAR CART Bar carts are probably the most popular option for a home bar. They offer a chic look without taking up lots of space The bar cart was first introduced in the Victorian era, in which it was mainly used to serve tea however towards the 1920’s and 30’s it progressed into more of a “cocktail cart” – because who would want to drink tea when you could drink cocktails? As the resurgence of Art Deco styles in recent years we have also seen a resurgence of bar carts. Whether you opt for a bar cart in brass for a vintage feel or an industrial inspired version made from wood and metal, there are a bevy of options to suit any budget. When it comes to a bar cart it is the perfect way to display your favourite bottles, glasses and bar accessories while also adding in other decorative accessories such as flowers or a plant to dress up the space. Bar carts are ideal if you fancy yourself as a mixologist perfectly stock it with your favourite cocktail ingredients so you can easily whip it up! @cottonofclaire @Laffsgaff

HO M E B ARS

HOW TO

YOUR BAR

GORGEOUS GLASSWARE Glassware can make or break a home bar. Having your very best glassware on display instantly makes your home bar look chic. Matching glasses will instantly elevate a home bar, and nothing feels better than a freshly served cocktail in a pretty glass! These Ripple Champagne Coupe Glasses from Ferm Living at Nest (£35 for a set of two) are delightfully elegant.

BEAUTIFUL BOTTLES What is a bar without drinks? A well-stocked bar should have all the essentials and showcasing a selection of drinks which have gorgeous packaging only helps make your bar look chic. A bottle of Harris Gin (£40) is the perfect addition to your bar with its gorgeous bottle inspired by the nature of the Isle of Harris.

NEON BRIGHT LIGHT Get the party started with a neon light - a perfect way to style your bar. With loads of fun and cheeky options available a neon light brings the club vibe to your home. The Pink disco Neon Acrylic Box Light from Audenza (£94.95) will bring Studio 54 glamour to your home bar!

BRILLIANT BAR TOOLS Any mixology enthusiast will need bar tools to shake up their cocktails and having super chic bar tools is the perfect way to style your bar while also being practical! This Copper and Marble Bar tool set (£44.95) from Prezzybox.com will add a stylish touch to any home bar.

CLASSY CARAFES A carafe is a great addition to a home bar and adds an elegant look. Whether you fill it with your favourite drink or fill it with water for the non-drinkers, a carafe is an ideal way to serve drinks. The Arts Optic Carafe from John Lewis (£30) is a great option and can also be used as a vase when not in use!

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ROCK L OK BY ELLIS COCHRANE

George Monkey Table Lamp In Metallic Gold (£45) - Iconiclights.co.uk

If you haven’t already seen or heard about Netflix’s biggest TV series ever, Bridgerton, then you have been missing out on some seriously salacious storylines. And most importantly, all of the period decor and fashion. 84

he polar opposite of the minimalist trend that has been at the forefront of interior design for years now, Bridgerton‘s Regency era opulence is all about extravagance and excess. Whether you’d like to replicate an entire room based on the show or would rather incorporate specific pieces or styles, there are some easy and show stopping ways to do so in every room of your home.

Gold King Edison Grande Pendant Lamp by Young and Battaglia - £820 www.mineheart.com

Gold King Edison Pendant Lamp (£504) - Mineheart

Corset Armchair Black Leather Back & Pink Velvet Seat (£1470) - www.mineheart.com

ORNATE PHOTO FRAMES Give your favourite photographs a B r i d g e r t o n m a ke ove r w i t h s o m e antique-style photo frames. Just imagine how your photographs would look sitting in the parlour of one of the grand houses on the show. This is a really budget friendly and non-committal way of trying out the Regency styling without having to completely redesign a space. It gives

a nice nod to the record-breaking TV series without being too much of an investment. Plus, it ties in nicely to our next tip.

GOLD GILDING You can easily update small details in your home to give them that gold gilded look. From handles and knobs on your cabinets and drawers to antique-style candlesticks and light fittings, the opportunities to gild your home in gold are endless.

Ornate 5 Aperture Photo Frame (£15) – Dunelm

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Provencal Carved White French Dressing Table (£680) The French Bedroom Company

A DECADENT DRESSING TABLE

WOOD PANELLING

Take inspiration from the likes of Sofia Coppola’s Marie Antionette, like the set designer of Bridgerton did, with a decadent dedicated dressing table. Think ornate, with plenty of space to house everything that you need to get ready in the morning or undressed in the evening.

Wood panelled walls were already beginning to have somewhat of a revival before Bridgerton hit our screens. But the wood panelled walls featured in the series will surely only see this trend grow. And it’s the kind of trend that will be in style for years to come. You can either call in the professionals to have the panelling cut and custom installed for you. Or you can attempt a bit of DIY. If you’re feeling particularly savvy, you can cut and design the pieces yourself. This is especially handy if you’re renovating on a budget. Or you can apply ready-made panels, such as the ones from finepanel.co.uk.

Pick a wood finish with intricate vintage-inspired detailing and carvings to truly nail the look and go for a stool that accompanies this design. And the more mirrors the better, we say. Make sure that you can see yourself from several different vantage points when you’re primping or preening like the Bridgerton ladies.

Just because you’re applying your 21st century makeup products instead of homemade rouge, doesn’t mean that you don’t deserve to feel quite as regal as you do it.

A GRAND HEADBOARD Switching out your headboard for a suitably grander one can instantly make any bedroom look like it’s right out of Bridgerton. Opt for curved and piped headboards to give you that grandiose feeling.

Palais de Versailles Luxury Upholstered Gold Bed (from £1,895) The French Bedroom Company www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

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of Bridgerton regency blue to your bedroom, for example, with scatter cushions, throws, curtains, bedding and rugs. Or use a pastel shade for your bathroom or kitchen accessories. Panelling: Wm. Boyle Interior Finishes

We love the way that the wood panelling looks in any room but especially in bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens and hallways.

WEDGEWOOD BLUE & PASTELS We d g e w o o d ’s b l u e i n s p i r e d t h e Bridgerton family’s signature blue shade on the show. Along with this, pretty pastels are used throughout, both in the homes and on the bodies of some of our favourite characters. Picking one or two of these pastel colours to use in your home is a great way to ease yourself into the Regency styling. You can easily add a pop

Bloomsbury Market Tayla Oriental Heart Chinoiserie Cotton Cushion Cover (£55.99) - Wayfair.co.uk

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VINTAGE-STYLE FLORAL WALLPAPER

reate some serious impact by using a vintage-style and/or floral wallpaper. This would look splendid as a feature wall in a bedroom or living room. And it really adds a decadent and opulent flair to any room.

Fantastic Peacock Kings mural by Andrea Haase (from £35/m2) www.wallsauce.com Undercover Antiques Plates Set (£60) - Mineheart Blue Butterfly Lady Framed Canvas Print (from £104.00) - Mineheart www.limelace.co.uk

For a fresh look on the classic Wedgewood plate, we adore the modern splattered designs on this set of plates from Mineheart. 87

R O C K TH E REG EN CY LO O K

Tobias Velvet Curtain (£98-118) – Anthropologie

SUMPTUOUS CURTAINS Lavish drapes, as the Americans call them, or curtains, were a big part of creating the period appropriate look of Bridgerton, according to the production designer, Will Hughes-Jones. Add another decadent texture to your curtain choice by going for a velvet finish. And don’t

forget that curtains can be a great way to introduce that Bridgerton blue into your home design. If you already have curtains that you love or that work for your space, why not add a bit of Regency styling and period drama with a tassel curtain tieback.

‘Honey Queen Bee’ Fine Art Print (from £18) – Emily Carter Bumble Bee Door Knocker – Solid Brass Cox & Cox

We also love the idea of integrating either one of the family symbols in our wall art choices. Either a bee or a butterfly would denote a Bridgerton or Featherington affiliation. Or take royal inspiration but with a bit of twist.

PERIOD-INSPIRED WALL ART Switching up or adding wall art to any room can instantly transform the look of a space without you having to spend much time or money. Think vintageinspired when picking up wall art inspired by Bridgerton. A still life or Victorian portrait would give you that Regency style instantly.

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RO CK T H E RE G ENCY LOOK

Madame Blush Canvas Print (from £185.00) - Mineheart | www.limelace.co.uk

Bubblegum Framed Canvas Print (from £104.00) - Mineheart | www.limelace.co.uk

Wisteria in Cornflower Blue Wallpaper (£120 per roll) – Woodchip & Magnolia

WISTERIA Whether you have the means and space to plant your very own Wisteria plant in your garden or would prefer to bring the lovely lilac and blue hues inside, Wisteria features heavily in the Netflix series. If planting outdoors, just imagine how awe-inspiring your outside space will look when it is fully grown and in bloom. Or if you’re too impatient to plant and wait for your Wisteria to grow naturally, there are some great faux flower options available that would work either indoors or outdoors.

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Out of the blue BY MAIRI CLARK

The whole concept of showhomes has been reinvented by Miller Homes’ new range in Bellshill that marries Scandinavian style with smooth sea blue colour to create a calming environment to attract everyone from single business people wanting more space, to growing families.

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MILLE R H O ME S SHOWHOME

The housebuilder’s new Crawford range at its Green Park Gardens development embraces Scandinavian touches, the like of which is hardly seen in show houses. Although the houses [when bought] are just a blank canvas, the vision that has been applied by interior designer Eileen Kesson of Envision Interiors, certainly debunks the myth that all showhomes have to be safe when it comes to design! Using a mix of abstract lineage design in the bedrooms, laundry room, and the home office – now a staple in most homes which uses a calming, focused blue paint colour. Speaking about the radical launch, Eileen said: “I was inspired by the idea of a young family beginning their new adventure in the home. The overall concept was to create a look that combined a bold and distinctive interior design with a streamlined approach. We created a Scandinavian-inspired colour palette of chalky white, slate blue, soft grey and warm oak throughout, with pops of champagne and bronze”. MAY 2021 |

M IL L ER H O M ES SHOWH O ME

The showhome is the first time the Crawford range has been launched in Scotland and has already seen nearly three quarters of the houses sold. The airy central hallway leads to a family lounge that makes full use of the house’s length and – thanks to its dual aspect windows – the entire space is flooded with natural light. The statement fireplace pullout is embedded with an integrated TV, and by using warm whites, champagne and grey combined with downlighting, the living space has a soft, open and ambient feel.

Across the hallway from the lounge sits an open kitchen and dining space, complete with family dining table. Rich blue walls are complemented with a statement mirror spilling light onto the room, and beautiful French doors offer additional light from the garden. Light was a big part of the design and the entire ground floor uses a polished warm blonde oak herringbone floor to bounce light and create a timeless finish. The three bedrooms - one en-suite - are complemented by a modern family bathroom, and use a mix of crackle-effect grey wallpaper, a showstopping champagne and navy geometric feature wall in the main bedroom, while the third bedroom, also painted in rich blue, has been adapted into a stylish home office. Interested buyers can book an appointment to visit the Crawford show home at Green Park Gardens by calling 03301 620 036 to speak to their Development Sales Manager or by visiting www.millerhomes.co.uk.

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Exact wallpaper

3 4

the 5 1. WALLPAPER

6. GEOMETRIC CUSHION 45CM X 45CM

Sumi Indigo/Linen Harlequin Wallpaper - £71 per roll www.harlequin.sandersondesigngroup.com

La Residence Interiors - £30 www.laresidenceinteriors.co.uk

2. OAKLIE MIRROR

7. SOLITUDE ABSTRACT RUG

Sweetpea & Willow - £385 www.sweetpeaandwillow.com

Next Home - £75 to £250

3. NEWARK INDUSTRIAL PENDANT LIGHT

Next - £299

8. MAE ACCENT CHAIR

Very.co.uk - £48

4. WHITE EMBOSSED SOAP DISPENSER Primark Uk - £4

5. FIRESIDE FIREPLACES Empire range - £1099 inc VAT

8 6

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TOSS OUT THE

TW E E

All images credited to @the.scottish.cottage

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hree years ago, city dwellers Tegan and Connor moved from the city centre to a very rural cottage just outside Stirling. We talked to them about the differences between city and cottage living and how they managed to avoid going down the twee route. BY ZOE JOHNSTON

When Tegan and Connor first found their cottage, they loved the quirky features, the low ceilings and the views. “It’s very rural,” says Tegan. “We have no shops or pubs near by. Nothing but hills and country walks.” Although it’s not as remote as you would think - they are based around 10 miles away from Stirling should they need any of the amenities - Tegan says, “that waking up to gorgeous views makes you feel relaxed, and the silence and sound of nature is so calming.” The couple were instantly drawn to the idea of building a little country life. “We loved the prospect of keeping chickens,” she says. “We always wanted

a project. Something we could live in and renovate as we went along.” While they have not fully finished the project, it is amazing to see how far they have come. From ripping out the old kitchen to building their own barn door, Tegan and Connor have managed to do the full project themselves, despite the difficulties that arise with any project. “We learned that nothing is a quick job,” she laughs. “Nine times out of ten, things have taken longer and cost more, mostly due to correcting other people’s past errors or finding faults we didn’t know were there. We have learned that together we are an amazing team, and that most things are achievable.”

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RH THE SCOT T I SH COT TAGE

The room Tegan is most proud of is the kitchen, which took eight months to complete. “That was probably the biggest job,” she says. “We had to completely strip back the walls, put a damp course in, plasterboard, plaster and then install the kitchen.” While that was being completed, they made a makeshift kitchen in their conservatory. Tegan tells us the day she was able to wash her dishes in her sink was the best feeling ever! Their move into the cottage in February 2018, saw them greeted with one of the worst storms Scotland had seen for decades- The Beast from the East. “We were snowed in for 5 days,” she says. “Our only source of heating was a poorly working multifuel stove, so it was always freezing. We used to go to bed with our ski-ing layers on. We had to light a fire when we got up in the morning but didn’t really know how to do this effectively.” Enquiries to the previous owners were met with

some resistance. “When we asked them, they said it worked fine for them,” says Tegan. “We were referred to as “townies” and they said it was us not knowing how to work it.” But while weather can affect the running of their home, lockdown hasn’t affected them that much, which they put down mostly to their location. The biggest adjustment has been the price of amenities, and the couple often have no phone signal and they deal with slow internet connection. “We are essentially off the grid,” she says. “When you get used to it all, this is really a wonderful place to live.” Despite the snub of help from their predecessors, Tegan says that the local community is another bonus to living in the country “There is a community of lovely people,” she says. “They bring us home baking and preserves.” When it comes to furnishing their home, Tegan was determined to avoid making the cottage look ‘twee’. “I went for a rustic / modern country

| MAY 2021

cottage feel,” she says. “I took inspiration from Instagram and Pinterest. I absolutely love Neptune, Cox & Cox and The White Company. We have a very modest budget so although these inspire me, I often interpret this in my own way, using DIY, upcycling or cheaper alternatives.” Tegan found her eclectic style came in useful as she wanted to avoid things matching too well. “I try to stay away from things like hanging hearts and white chalky paint, for me these can be a little too twee,” she says. By drawing on Scottish style, old English cottages as well as Nordic/ Scandinavian, the couple managed

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RH THE SCOT T I SH COT TAGE to keep the traditional feel while also making the space feel modern. “I think when you make stuff too traditional or use just one style it can almost start to look “themed” and overly quaint, which is something I didn’t want,” Tegan says. By incorporating natural textures such as wood alongside soft wools to make the space feel cosy, as well as using neutral earthy tones, Tegan has managed to bring the colours of the surrounding countryside indoors. Her Instagram account came around when she started sharing her DIY activities on her personal account. “People kept telling me to start one just for the cottage,” she says. “I hadn’t really thought about it.” Tegan’s @the.scottish.cottage now has nearly 10,000 followers and is growing every day. She frequently shows off her DIY’s, alongside inspiring interiors and the occasional image of her adorable animals- Poppy the cat and Hudson and Bear the dogs.

One thing that has eluded the couple is the history of the cottage. “We know it’s one of the oldest buildings in the valley where we live,” she says. “The oldest record of it is dating back to an OS map from 1640 but its exact age is unknown.” They do know that the cottage has been extended in the past and are keen to see what it was like when it was first built. Tegan and Connor are at a crossroads as to whether to extend the cottage. “Our plan is to either extend or move,” she says. “We are so spoiled with our location, I think we will find it hard to find something that compares.”

Follow @the.scottish.cottage to see the couple’s gorgeous cottage in the Scottish countryside.

HANGING PLANT POT JUTE

H&M HOME

National Trust Shop - £8

– from £8.99

SET OF 2 WOVEN WICKER STORAGE BASKETS Next - - £65

DISTRESSED ARCH INDOOR/ OUTDOOR MIRROR Rockett St George - £48

LARGE MANGO WOOD CHOPPING BOARD Heavenly Homes and Gardens - £38

GLASS CLOCHE Homesense - £12.99

ARIANA CHEST COFFEE TABLE Sweet Pea and Willow - £620

STYLE STEAL

LEVY STORAGE LADDER Urban outfitters – £25

SOLID COLOUR CUSHION COVER H&M Home - £12.99

DRIED BOUQUET

Mud Urban Flowers- from £26

CLEARWELL VASE TALL Garden Trading - £16

TWO TONE CREAM VASE Cox and Cox – £45

INDOOR OUTDOOR DIAMONDS REVERSIBLE THROW GREY Cox and Cox - £55

COSY WIDE KNIT PINK BLANKET

The French Bedroom Company - £125

MAY 2021 |

O U T DO O R LIVIN G

Let’s Go

Outside! 28 pages of inspiration for your gardens and outdoor spaces.

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G A RDEN ROOMS

He-Sheds versus She-Sheds Garden Rooms are growing in popularity as they give us a currently rare opportunity to escape from our homes. BY CHLOE FLEMING Yoga Studio: Mackie Garden Rooms www.mackiegardenrooms.co.uk

In 2021, our gardens are getting more luxurious as we replace our rusty and dull garden sheds with stunning garden rooms. Garden rooms are essentially an extension, that while not directly attached to your home, are used to give you some extra space so you don’t have to move to a bigger home. The cost is largely dependent on what you choose to put in the room, and are popular as most of the time they don’t require planning permission (saving lots of time and effort!). They offer multifunctional uses, which makes them able to be tailored to your individuals needs and be unique to you. If you’re not sure how you could use a garden room, here’s some of our favourite garden room types that will have you rushing to invest. Let the battle of he-sheds vs she-sheds commence!

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Office Garden Room: www.jmlgardenrooms.co.uk Photography by Gill Murray

G A RD EN RO O M S

GYM Are you missing your local gym in lockdown? Or have you always wanted your own private gym with no one around to judge as you sweat profusely and struggle to breathe doing Charlotte Crosby’s ‘Belly Blitz’ workout? Maybe it’s time to create your own at-home gym with your garden room. Fitness equipment can take up a lot of room, so creating a space outwith the home for exercising is the perfect solution for carrying out those home workouts. Depending on the type of workouts you like, you can make it your own and tailor the space to your individual fitness needs. You could choose to kit it out with the latest gym tech such as treadmills and exercise bikes, or keep it simple with a small space for your yoga mat and some dumbbells. With an at home gym, you’ve no excuse not to workout, with no commute, flexibility to work out at any time of the day, and complete and utter privacy from your household and neighbours. I guess there’s only one thing left to say Namaste? Office Pod: JML Garden Rooms www.jmlgardenrooms.co.uk | Photography by Gill Murray

HOME OFFICE With most of us working from home due to the pandemic, our living space has also become our office. Even if you are lucky enough to have a separate study or office space in your house, it can be hard to switch off at night in our homes like we used to. Enter the garden room office. It may sound silly but even the sh ort commute to the bottom of your garden will give you that home-work separation. Garden room offices can be super stylish and save you the space of creating an office in your home. It may also save you having to clear your dining table every night before you make dinner! You can design the room to help you to feel professional, with a desk and chair that are comfortable and fit your needs. If your partner needs to use the space too, you can even get screens to divide the space up and take away some of the noise of those loud phone calls and clanking of keyboards. If you choose to invest in one of these garden room offices, you may never want to go back to your real work office ever again!

Yoga Studio: Mackie Garden Rooms www.mackiegardenrooms.co.uk

BARS AND NIGHTCLUBS It’s time to make all your friends and family jealous by having a garden room turned bar. Whilst we can only currently socialise with our household, a garden bar/nightclub is a space you can relax in and feels like a retreat away from your home. By adding classics such as a pool table, tv screen or music speakers, alongside stock of your favourite drink, you can easily make your garden room bar feel like a trip to the pub or your favourite nightclub. If you want to use your bar for entertaining, you could host Zoom cocktail classes with your closest girlfriends, or for talking footie with the lads, and make it the perfect place for socialising. This is a good option for you, should you want to bring more fun to your outdoor space, whilst also adding an element of luxury in the space. Own private bar? Yes please!

Bar: Outside In Garden Rooms www.outsideingardenrooms.co.uk

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G A RDEN ROOMS

GUEST ROOM Fed up of sleeping on the sofa and getting backache every time your friends or family are round to visit? A guest bedroom garden room might be worth considering. It will give you all the blissful sleep you deserve and you’ll never have to give up your bed again! You could take it a bit further and make it into a studio, with a small kitchen, bathroom and bedroom for all of your guests’ needs. The studio could be turned into a granny flat or a room for your older kids to use while they save up for their first foot on the property ladder. If you make the space nice enough, you might even be able to rent out the room for some extra cash to those needing a more affordable option to stay. For these types of rooms you might need to get planning permission so just make sure to check before you invest!

PLAYROOMS AND GAMING ROOMS Beginning to get tired of constantly having to keep the kids occupied? We know how you feel! Why not create a garden playroom to give them a place to play and get them out of your hair. Not only will having a garden playroom or gaming room keep your house much tidier from the mountain of toys, but it is a better place for them to carry out messy arts and crafts, and loudly play the latest XBOX/PlayStation game without disturbing you.

Outside In Garden Rooms: www.outsideingardenrooms.co.uk

SANCTUARY SPACES We all need a bit of downtime every now and then, and what could be better than your very own garden room sanctuary that offers peace and quiet away from the rest of the household. For this type of room, you can design it exactly in accordance with however you find it easiest to relax. Maybe you want to put in a plush sofa with lovely lighting, perfect for reading your book. Or perhaps you want to put in a tv so you can binge watch Bridgerton for the 7th time or send your other half out to watch Car SOS without you and the rest of the family complaining! It’s really whatever makes you feel calm and serene and allows you to relax and unwind in the space. If it was my sanctuary space, the place would be decked in fairy lights, with a large tv so I felt like I was at the cinema, and equipped with a mini fridge to hold my movie snacks! A cinema garden room sounds pretty perfect too.

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As the kids get older, you can alter the garden room into something else. For example, you could turn it into a place for their teen hangouts with friends, or to do their homework, or eventually a space for yourselves when they finally move out.

O UTSI D E/I N

Room to Expand It used to be that the one place you had in the garden to escape to was a shed, but over the last decade, with the rise in adult children staying in the family home longer and – certainly in the last year – people working from home, the garden room is becoming less of a luxury and more of a necessity. Here we showcase just a few examples from Outside In Garden Rooms of how a small space in your garden can be made into so much more for less than £15k.

THE SCOTTISH PERSONALISED GIFT COMPANY Sandra Craig, who runs the Scottish Personalised Gift Company, had been working from a cold, sterile commercial unit but – aside from feeling it stifled her creativity – she also wanted to strike a better work/life balance. “It was a huge lifestyle change for me,” she says.

Working with Outside In Garden Rooms, Sandra was able to create a functional area where she could use the area in her garden and build a space to accommodate sewing machines, work tables and also provide a space for entertaining to maintain the life side of the balance! The room features white laminate flooring, which may sound crazy for a garden room however with a business like Sandra’s, she needed to be able to quickly see any dropped needles or thread so white was essential. Even though the rooms are highly insulated, there is an electric oil filled radiator, but demand is low for it. When the garden room is used as a workshop, Sandra has used the space cleverly with pop up work tables. These can then be tucked away when the room is claimed as a social space.

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O U TS IDE/IN

THE DUAL PURPOSE GARDEN ROOM Outside In Garden Rooms was hired by Nicola Ross to create a dual purpose garden room in Glasgow’s Knightswood. The 5m x 3m building combines an office with a gym. By using sliding UPVC doors, the most is made of the space needed for a gym space, while providing a separate office area. The sliding internal door avoids the need for a swinging door therefore maximises space and privacyfor both areas, and windows on all sides bring in light at all times of the day and provide much needed ventilation in the gym!

JOHN AMABILE’S SCOTS SAFARI LODGE

Interior designer, John Amabile, collaborated with Outside In Garden Rooms when he wanted to create a multi-purpose garden retreat. Nicknamed Scots Safari Lodge, he wanted a space separate from his house to showcase his interior design skill, but also to entertain friends. As you would expect, John’s escape hideaway has every tech gadget needed. With a lovely kitchen space, the room can be used for many uses. Accessed via vast, sliding aluminium doors to the front, it’s highly insulated

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for all year round use, and has an energy efficient, oilfilled electric radiator that is controlled via an app. The room itself is clad in Siberian larch with the exterior requiring little or no maintenance. When weathered over time, the timber will gradually change to a gorgeous silver colour. Surrounding the room is a deck of compositeboards which leads into John’s beautifully landscaped garden.

O UTSI D E/I N

Don’t I need planning permission? Surprisingly, in Scotland, most ancillary buildings don’t require planning permission, because most meet a set of rules called ‘permitted development’. Our advice is always to check with your local authority as to the specifics of your area. However, the following is the Scottish Government’s guidelines:

• the eaves (the part where the wall meets the roof) is no higher than 3 metres

The permitted development rules for an ancillary building are:

• if the land is in a conservation area or in the grounds of a listed building, the ancillary building has a footprint of less than 4 square metres

• it’s located at the back of the house • it isn’t used as a separate home to live in • it doesn’t take up half of the grounds behind your home • it isn’t higher than 4 metres • any part that is a metre or less from the boundary is no higher than 2.5 metres

If you wanted a bathroom installed, that would require a building warrant and possibly planning permission. For further information regarding the Planning Permission process go to https://www.mygov. scot/planning-permission/

Check out our online gallery and read our case studies as the first port of call. We also have a showroom at Klondyke Mortonhall Garden Centre in Edinburgh, as well as a garden room which can be viewed by appointment in Glasgow’s West End. Please visit our contact page for more information or to make an appointment.

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G A RDEN DESIGN

Garden Design... is as much an art as it is a science and it relies on a robust process to be successful. Kirsty McLean of The Garden Company explains how putting some thought into your garden doesn’t have to be difficult, but can make all the difference.

It can be an overwhelming experience trying to design your own garden, so having a professional garden designer on hand who can work with you in a collaborative way and guide you, can save you from inadvertently making costly mistakes and ill-informed choices. The cost of contracting a designer and following the process, versus the cost of starting your garden installation with a poorly developed plan is incomparable and can save you unnecessary stress, grief and at the end of the day, cost. Developing your plan to scale, will allow you to discuss options as you move through the process and build up a detailed plan that can be used as a tool to assist third parties to understand what you are trying to achieve and with the assistance of visuals, can help them buy into your vision. These days, 3D visuals and even virtual reality are readily available through many designers and we at The Garden Design Company Scotland believe that we help to de-risk the design process by creating one vision that everyone involved can see clearly in all its detail, meaning there is little room for misinterpretation, which can also be costly and lead to disappointment, or even disagreement with your contractor. 108

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Design Process The success of any garden design relies on how good its underlying structure is and that is created in the first instance by exploring and understanding your style, the space and its potential.

Style Create a storyboard of pictures of gardens that you like and those you don’t like. Analyse these (make a list of the common elements that you like and don’t like) and try to understand why you chose these – geometric or curvy, floral or different shades of green, contemporary or traditional etc. This gives you a solid understanding of your style.

G A RD EN D ESI GN

Function By understanding where the sun rises and falls tells you where you might like to situate seating areas. Your rotary dryer is likely to be positioned near to the kitchen or utility door for ease of access. The shed might be discreetly tucked away at the bottom of the garden.

Movement Having established where all the main activities should be positioned, you connect these by how you travel, thus establishing the framework onto which you can hang layers of texture and interest.

Small hedges such as a clipped box or yew hedging can be used to frame borders, divide areas and creating shapes.

Zoning When thinking about enclosure and division, consider zoning. If you have children, then create an outdoor play space. We have all found the value of outdoor entertaining this last year so focus on creating a social space so family and friends can visit, perhaps including shelter by using gazebos, awnings or simply a large umbrella.

Creating Composition

and stick it in the garden without real knowledge of its spread and height, or the conditions it likes to live in, usually leads to costly disappointment …unless you are lucky and achieve both by chance! It takes knowledge, understanding and detailed thought to create a planting d e s i g n a n d i s wo r t h t a k i n g t h e time to research before you hit the garden centres.

Nature & Wellbeing Nature and wellbeing go hand in hand and in spending more time in our gardens we have connected with it and our wildlife in a whole new way. Growing plant that are pollinators (Lavender, Marjoram, Scabious, Foxgloves, Leucanthemum, Nepeta,

Enclosure, and Focal Points Ask yourself about which views in the wider landscape you want to retain and those you want to screen. That rotary dryer you positioned outsidethe kitchen/utility room door might not be what you want to look at when you are relaxing in your seating area for instance. Enclosure, division and creating vertical and horizontal focal points bring character to the space and intrigue into play. Hedges can be an excellent way to create an enclosure, division, or screening organically, but trellis or slatted sections of decorative fence painted or planted up with climbers can also be a spacesaving way of achieving the same thing. However, if you do have space and want to encourage wildlife, then hedges are the way to go and there is such an amazing choice out there from evergreen - Portuguese or Cherry Laurel, Thujaplicata, Cotoneaster or mixed, deciduous hedges such as Beech, Hawthorn, Blackthorn & Buckthorn.

From every corner of your garden there is a different view and not to explore this is a loss to the overall design. Think of each of these views as a composition of elements that come together to make a pleasing snapshot and then join these up to ensure flow. Focal points are a great way of achieving this. These could be a bench seat or arbour, positioned in a quiet, shady part of the garden, a sundial on a plinth on a circle of paving in a sunny spot, a beautiful urn surrounded by planting, a stunning plant or tree…or a mixture of all of these elements?

Planting As tempting as it is to pick up a single plant, shrub, or tree from the garden centre because you fall in love with it

Echinacea, Buddleja, Honeysuckle, to name but a few!) make for wonderful watching, as the bees, butterflies, insects and birds all thrive on their existence. If you have a small space, then how about turfing your pots with wildflower meadow turf, or if you have a larger space then perhaps consider not mowing an area of grass, or create a living roof on your shed using Sedum matting or wildflower turf? Anything that can connect us to nature will enhance the quality of our lives and in doing so benefits our mental and physical wellbeing in the process. Gardens, whatever size are a precious resource and worth celebrating, by making the most of them, because of the joy, exploration and sanctuary they can bring us. MAY 2021 |

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Case Study Creating your garden can be a daunting prospect. Especially as you may have a garden designer who uses their imagination and expertise to explain what your garden may look like. However, Kirsty uses her ground-breaking virtual reality design program to show her clients exactly what they are going to get. The system means if you thought from the description you were getting an oriental pond, but you were actually

getting a sandpit, expectations are managed from the very beginning and everyone knows what they’re doing. The pictures you see are before pictures of the space Kirsty’s company was to work on, and the other images are 3D images of the designs to show what the finished garden would look like. The couple Kirsty worked with in this case study had neared the completion of an open plan extension to the rear of their property when they recognised that the garden needed the same level of attention that they had given the extension. “They were extremely brave to consider going straight into a garden design and build,” she says. “They had spent the previous year living out of their sitting room where their temporary kitchen was situated especially with having a young family, dog and both running their own business!” The brief was to have the garden – which was a sun trap – reflect the contemporary style of the interior of the extension and to create a natural flow into the garden from this. There were significant level changes and many different textures of finishes on the various surrounding walls, which required a plan as to how best bind these together cohesively.

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“They wanted low maintenance but were happy to have a variety of planting as long as it was contained,” says Kirsty. “They wanted a water feature/sound of water, a contemplative space in which to sit after a hard day’s work and a family area big enough 8 people to dine. A lighting design was also to be incorporated.”

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So you’re a newbie at gardening? You’ve got your first garden and you’re not sure what to do. Look no further. BY MAIRI CLARK “Before you start, prepare a plan of what you want to achieve,” says Brian Hawthorne, plant manager and buyer at Cardwell Garden Centre. “Assuming the hard landscaping is new, you will need to consider the colours of any planters and plants. Old slabs and suchlike can be painted to any colour you wish, a s c a n wa l l s a n d fe n ce s . D e c i d e whether to have complimentary or contrasting colours.” Brian recommends that if your garden is mainly hard-landscaped (meaning concrete) containers are best. “Plant your containers with a mixture of perennial plants and seasonal plants, this way your seasonal maintenance is less, simply replacing bedding plants etc,” he says. “Consider the style, colour, size and how many you need. Don’t forget to make the most of any walls or fences using hanging baskets and wall planters. Bulbs are also ideal for containers. Groups of containers will have a bigger visual impact, so different sizes of the same pots can look great.” As lawns are very difficult to maintain in Scotland (more on that later), Brian recommends going down the concrete route for virgin gardeners. “ H a rd l a n d s c a p i n g i s t h e l owe st maintenance,” he says. “Containers and baskets are straight forward and easy to maintain. Rule of thumb is to plant slow-growing bushes, hedges and trees and avoid fast-growing shrubs that will need trimming at least once a year.” Dobbies have found interest has boomed since lockdown. “There’s been a massive increase in gardening since lockdown,” says Marcus Elyes, horticultural director at Dobbies. “There’s been a huge increase in gardening.

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We’ve estimated there are about 3 million new gardeners now coming into stores, so we’ve started doing more educational stuff in store. We have experts in every store that can advise you on what plants to buy and how to look after them.”

PLANTING OUT For bedding plants, if you’re going with hard landscaping, you may want to invest in something like the planter bench from Dobbies. Even though summer is nearly here, it’s still not too late to start planting in the garden. “There’s still plenty of time to plant, spring planting hasn’t started in earnest,” says Marcus “A lot of the spring planting, bedding crops and flowers will be growing rapidly throughout the summer. Now is the time to start planting bedding plants and hanging baskets. As summer moves on, we’ll have bigger plants arriving every week.” The unreliability of the Scottish weather can put many people off gardening, but Marcus directs customers towards sturdy plants. “This time of year, shrubs and herbaceous plants are hardier,” he says. “Lupins, delphiniums, foxgloves, pansies and violas are hardy so can take cold temperatures. Our ranges are flagged up so people can see what plants can be grown outside when it’s cold, or if they have to be grown in a greenhouse. If you don’t have a greenhouse, we do sell frost fleeces, to protect any plants from a sudden cold snap.”

SMART WATERING Obviously, watering is key during peak summer months, but in Scotland, up until June, we can, unfortunately, rely on our weather to water our plants! Should there

not be a good shower, early morning or early evening is the optimal time to water plants. Avoid the hottest part of the day as the water will quickly evaporate and also avoid watering too late at night as this can lead to fungus growth. Make sure water is directed at the base of plants, rather than over the top, to ensure the water gets to where it is needed. Water newly planted shrubs and perennials in dry periods, mulching well to help retain moisture. Adding liquid fertiliser, as per the manufacturer’s instructions, every fortnight to feed plants grown in containers and hanging baskets will help for healthy growth.

GO GREEN Vegetable gardens are becoming a big feature for many new gardeners. “We’re finding lots of people are looking at building vegetable plots,” says Marcus. “A lot of families are trying to teach their children where vegetables come from. We all know vegetables that you’ve grown yourself taste better!” Fruit trees are also becoming very popular. “Fruit trees need to be planted later in the season, so look at towards the end of May,” says Marcus. “Citrus plants like lemons and oranges are easy enough to grow, and you could even grow them on the balcony.” You could even grow bananas! “You can grow a hardy banana plant in a conservatory or on a balcony,” says Marcus. “I wouldn’t advise it so much in the north of Scotland, but certainly in the central belt. They will flower and look very attractive.” The only downside is you may have to wait seven years for a homegrown banana split!

PLANT I NG

MAKE LIGHT WORK OF WEEDING Warmer temperatures attract weeds. The quickest and easiest way to control them is to hoe them off early, then applying a thick layer of mulch over the soil surface to help keep any further weeds at bay. Mulching with organic matter, such as garden compost, also locks in moisture and, over time, helps to improve your soil, whilst giving plants a well-needed boost.

PRETTY PRUNING Regularly dead-heading flower borders extends the flowering season well into autumn, particularly for Dahlias, Roses and cottage garden Perennials. Herbaceous plants that have already died back can be cut back and tidied. Some such as Geraniums and Delphiniums will grow back with a second flush of foliage and flower for a late-season display. Other springflowering annuals, such as Forget-menots, will have faded and should be lifted to make way for later summer plantings. Fill gaps with fast-growing high summer bedding plants such as Dahlia, Cosmos and Nicotiana. Prune Wisteria by cutting back to around five leaves to 20cm in length. Prune spring-flowering shrubs, such as Deutzia and Weigela soon after flowering has faded to prevent them from becoming overgrown. Remove spent branches with secateurs or loppers to allow new growth to develop as this will carry next spring’s display. Dead-head roses to encourage repeat flowering. Roses are at their peak in June, making it the perfect time to choose new varieties to add to your summer display.

COTTAGE GARDEN PLANT SUPPORT In cottage gardens, make sure plant supports are in place and they’ll soon be disguised by fresh new growth. Sweet Peas should be growing strongly now. Use garden twine to tie in growths to their supports. Once established, they will climb happily by themselves.

SHOW LAWNS SOME LOVE Lawns are put under extra pressure during high summer months, but established

lawns that dry out and have brown patches will recover with some TLC and when rain returns - so don’t panic if they do. Regular mowing is best for a healthy lawn, however, don’t get downhearted if you don’t have a lush lawn. “Lawns are difficult to grow well in Scotland,” says Brian from Cardwell. “It is unlikely you will be able to have a perfect lawn unless you can spend a very large amount of time on it. For most of us, a harder wearing lawn that kids and pets can use is more practical. Seed bare patches (overseeding is recommended), cut a small amount at a time but cut frequently during the growing season. Use fertilisers in spring, summer and autumn to maintain healthy growth. Watering in prolonged dry spells is worth the effort. Good drainage is a must, use a lawn hollow tine aerator or garden fork to create holes and backfill with sharp sand. This can be difficult in newer houses as the ground depth of soil tends to be very small. The same can be said for clay soils. Moss is common in Scottish lawns, especially if your lawn has poor drainage or does not get much sunlight. You either have to live with it and manage it with treatments and raking/ scarifying, or completely replace it and solve the issue of drainage/daylight.”

PLANT UP SOME POTS Spruce up your patio or balcony with a few planted containers. Choose your plants and pots at the same time for a coordinated feel. Create a statement with several identical pots. Or go for an eclectic mix showcasing different varieties and colours. Terracotta pots or wooden containers will give you a traditional look, while eco-friendly plastics and bright colours will bring a contemporary feel.

the basket with some thin plastic (such as an old bread bag) but pierce a few holes in it to avoid it retaining water. Fill your basket with peat-free compost, and then start to plant. The best way to do this is to plant tall plants in the centre, smaller plants around the middle plants and then add trailing plants at the sides. Any spaces that are left, fill in with some compost and your basket is ready to hang in a sunny spot and be watered regularly! Mix and match bedding plants in a hanging basket to create a high impact feature to liven up a doorway, wall or fence. For best results, pack in as many bedding plants as you can. Position upright varieties like petunias, knapweed, scabious, lavender or begonias in the centre and smaller plants around the side like pansies, marigolds, sweet alyssum. Then add in trailing plants like ivy, nasturtium, honeysuckle, Lobelia ’pendula' around the edges to create fullness and a waterfall effect. Remember to water the basket every day and you’ll get months of lovely flowers.

GO OUT ON A LEDGE No garden? No problem. Bedding plants can help you make the most of whatever outdoor space you have. Choose the size and shape of container to suit and you can transform your windowsill or d o o r ste p w i t h b e a u t i f u l b l o o m s . Geraniums are always a good choice if your windowsills are exposed.

GET IN BED WITH YOUR PLANTS Knowing your plants means you can pick the right ones to thrive in the right spot.

BECOME A BASKET CASE

SHADY?

You can hang a basket on any external wall or fence post that you can mount a bracket on, and it’s a great way to have a burst of colour on your wall.

Busy Lizzies thrive in shade, so they’re a top choice if you want to brighten a shady spot. In pretty shades of pinks, reds, oranges, purples and white, this variety is ideal for bringing together lots of different colour schemes.

It’s normally preferable to plant native species, but if you want to plant nonnatives too, it can be good for insects too, as long as they’re not invasive. Your hanging basket needs to be lined. You should do this with conifer clippings, an old hessian sack or even an old woolly jumper. Don’t use moss, as often it could have originated from peatland. Line

BEST FOR EVERYTHING? Begonias are your best friend. They are happy to grow in most conditions, making them perfect for all kinds of spaces.

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Be a wildlife friendly gardener

BY MAIRI CLARK

There are two types of gardeners. Those that like to have a garden full of flowers and those that are more ecologically friendly. However, there’s now a way to do both. We spoke to the Scottish Wildlife Trust and garden specialist Cardwell to find out how you can be wildlife friendly regardless of your space. You gotta have soil If you’re starting from nothing, you’ll need to spend some time preparing your garden area. Firstly you need to dig through any soil that is there to remove any weeds, large roots or stones. Add some soil improver like a peat-free compost, manure or leaf mould and rake it through the soil until level.

Prepping your patch Pea-come veggie friendly It might seem a bit ambitious, but growing your own fruit and vegetables is an incredibly satisfying thing to do, both for nutrition and to attract wildlife to your garden. Firstly, don’t think about using chemical pesticides. These upset the natural balance of the environment and tend to kill both ‘pests’ (which of course are wildlife too) and also their natural predators. Without predators, pests may recover much quicker, so it’s best to be a bit more pest-tolerant and allow their natural predators to do some of the work for you. Before planting, learn as much as possible about the sorts of pests that are attracted to the crops you want to grow and the natural ways you might be able to control them. There are lots of wildlife-friendly pest control, which can include physical intervention like picking off slugs and aphids by hand, or putting up barriers like crushed eggshells and copper bands to prevent unwelcome intruders.

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If you’re a newbie at growing fruit and veg, some crops are easier to grow than others. Courgettes, potatoes, strawberries, tomatoes and beans are all good to start with. Some seeds can be planted directly into the soil in spring, but others may need to be grown in a pot in a greenhouse or on a sunny windowsill to get their roots going. As each fruit and vegetable is different, will react to different soil and different areas of your garden, do a bit of research and follow the instructions on the seed packets on how and when to plant.

Go wild It doesn’t matter what size your garden is, there’s always room for a wild patch! Set aside an area of lawn, part of a border

or even a large container and just watch as nature takes control! Brian Hawthorne, plant manager and buyer at Cardwell Garden Centre, recommends buying wildflowers as seeds, and just watch. “They will grow every year and many seed packs will contain seeds that will flower at different times or are themed,” he says. “Another benefit is that overseeding an area will also act as a weed suppressant. Buddleia (aka the butterfly bush) will attract butterflies to your garden. Flowering bulbs, bedding plants, fuchsias and other flowering shrubs will attract bees.” Long grass, peppered with flowers (some of which we might consider weeds), is one of the rarest habitats in our well-tended gardens, yet it is incredibly beneficial for wildlife. Patches of long grass encourage different plant species to grow, help insects to thrive, create feeding opportunities for birds and provide shelter for small mammals. In fact, the less pristine the lawn, the more promising it is for wildlife. If you are able to set aside a large area of lawn, cutting a path through the wild patch can instantly make it look more cared for and it allows you to wander through your patch to see what wildlife it has attracted.

Outdoor Living

When it comes to gardens, Nikki Brown in Aberdeen is someone that has created an amazing one, despite being not into gardening! Her garden in Aberdeen has been created to have multiple spaces for entertaining and relaxing. She tells us how she and her husband Mark went about making it into a very desirable place to chill out. BY ZOE JOHNSTON

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When choosing your home was the garden an important part that you considered? It’s a funny one. Although a reasonable sized garden that offered sunshine most of the day was important to us, the garden we ended up with superseded what we originally wanted. The house itself was completely not what I had envisioned us buying, as it was too traditional for me, but when I saw the garden! I fell in love with the 40ft fir tree. So, although the garden wasn’t the priority of our house purchase it ended up being my deciding factor on the house itself.

How have you used the space in your garden to make the most of it?

Why did you decide to go for artificial grass?

We created sections. A dining/BBQ space and a hot tub area which both have music and lighting. We then created the back second patio for casual sun lounging and drinks. It’s very much an entertaining garden.

We don’t love gardening, but the space was so big that we just wanted the garden to always be ready for that one day of sunshine! We also didn’t want any fighting over grass cutting!

You have gorgeous greenery in your garden, did you plant most of it or was it already established? The established fir trees and border trees were already there. We added two more firs as well as the box hedge. All evergreen to keep the garden looking full and green all year round and fairly minimal maintenance.

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How do you use plants to bring greenery to the space? Most of my planters have artificial plants in them. Again, it’s all low maintenance and the garden always looks ready and picture-perfect. It adds a modern feel and character to a pretty simplistic and minimal space. Most people go for real florals and flower beds, but it just wasn’t practical for our life.

W E STHOLME RH

How did you decide on your outdoor furniture? I wanted furniture with no coverings so I could leave it out all year round. Again, it’s all about the garden always been ready, low maintenance and modern looking. We recently changed a set though. We had two lounge sets in the garden but changed one for a dining set so we could eat outside more and is better suited for BBQs.

How do you use lighting in your garden? We have lighting under all the garden structures and then wired lighting throughout the rest of the garden. They focus on the main planting areas as up lighters and all set to a timer to come on when the sun goes down. We also added fairy lights to both established furs that are on all year round too lol.

What is the favourite part of your garden? It has to be the size and privacy. For being so central in the city, we were surprised to have such a large and private garden.

With lockdown and holidays on hold, have you ended up doing more to your garden? And have you created your own oasis/holiday at home area? We enjoyed it hugely at the start of lockdown. The only thing we did in the last year was change up one of the garden set and added a bamboo hedge at the back. As keen travellers, we have definitely spent the most time in the garden since we had it done.

How has lockdown affected your attitude to your outdoor space? Has it made it more important than ever? I wouldn’t say we took it for granted, as we have always loved it and we sit out when it’s nice. Even when it wasn’t nice, we used every aspect. This winter was the first year we just left the BBQ out all year. We used it right throughout the winter and made use of the pergola. The hot tub as well has been used more than ever this year! Even our friends and family that we could see in the garden at the end of last summer got to enjoy it. We are grateful to have such a wonderful space as I know a lot of people don’t and must have really struggled through lockdown especially with children.

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What made you decide to get a pergola and how has it affected how much you use your garden? The Renson coverings and pergola were both by a London company called Lanai Outdoor as we couldn’t find a company to do it in Scotland at the time. It’s only really become more available now, we installed ours a few years ago. Both were fully customizable and made to fit the house.

Do you use your garden year-round and what makes it a year-round garden? What was supposed to be a quick garden tidy up turned into a bigger renovation than the house itself! When we landscaped the garden originally, we didn’t have the pergola and Renson coverings. As it was our biggest expense, we felt these structures would allow us to use the garden all year round. The structures have retracting screens, side wind panels, lighting and heating. We also added fire pits to the back patio area for the cooler evenings.

How and what made you decide to get a hot tub? This is a bone of contention in the house. I always wanted one and the garden was huge and had more than enough room for it. Mark was absolutely against it as he’s heard most people don’t use them, it would be a waste of money but

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also he would be left to maintain and clean it! Alas, I bought one anyway! We had to have it craned into the garden over the house, which he was not pleased about. He was right though about his initial concerns. He manages it (much to his disgust) and we barely used it when we first got it. But since lockdown, we have used it so much. My nephew loves it too, so small wins!

How have you made your space feel more private? We are lucky. We have the large trees and wall, so it’s pretty private. When the trees come in in summer, it’s fully private. The only area during the winter when the trees are bare is the back corner, so we added non-invasive fargesia bamboo to hedge that area. We added a double-height fence on the left also.

How did you go about designing the garden? We started by looking to remove the original decking and replacing it with an extended patio. Then we learned the garden needed levelling, then the builder suggested a wall to save us digging it all out. It honestly grew arms and legs! The patio was then joined by a wall; with a box hedge; let’s change the grass; add pebbles; do a second patio in the corner; full timed lighting etc. and etc. Finally, Mark saw the pergola in a magazine and said it would be the finishing touch.

How practical and time-saving is artificial turf? For us, we would never be without it. I know people think it looks too fake but there are so many real looking ones so shop around and invest wisely. If gardening isn’t for you, I’d highly recommend it. Especially in Scotland, where the weather is so up and down. Our garden is always ready for an impromptu. There’s no upkeep either. We blow the leaves off maybe once or twice a year, but it’s not required.

What are you most looking forward to doing in the garden this summer? I’m praying for good weather if we are not going to be able to travel, so we can enjoy the garden with friends and family as much as possible.

Do you have any more plans for the space? No more plans, bits and pieces in the house next but who knows what this year will hold… @Westholmeproperty

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Main Image Credit: Lights4fun

A table set for Summer

BY LINDSAY DOHERTY

We can’t think of many more enjoyable things in life than dining ‘Al Fresco’. The limitations of Scottish weather mean that we as a nation are arguably even more grateful than most when a day comes along and it’s balmy enough to venture outside to eat. Make the occasion even more memorable, whoever you are dining with, by setting a tablescape that’s a feast for the eyes.

Tablecloth Chalk Pink Linen Company £95

Set the scene

Flora napkin Setting Pretty £12

A tablecloth adds an air of occasion, and there are loads to choose from, plain or patterned, for all shapes and sizes of table. Or if you find a tablecloth to be too formal, a runner brings colour and style but gives a more casual look. Add some napkins and finish off with napkin rings for a final flourish, like a pair of earrings that can make an outfit, they give that finishing touch.

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Garden Trading Brompton Napkin Rings £10 for set of 4

O U TDO O R D I NI NG

Plate up Anything goes, but if you’re making an effort, we say bring out your (almost) best and don’t settle for the unbreakable picnic plastic. Don’t think it all has to be a matching set, a mismatched table of quirky crockery has personality and can often look even more stylish than a matchy-matchy one. Maxwell & Williams Boho Plate Damask Red 27Cm Kitchen Craft £8.95 Cream Cornwall Bone China Bowl £49.00 Cream Cornwall Bordallo Pinheiro Cabbage Leaf Dish Divertimenti £25

Drink it in Fill a large glass jug or water bottle with water, then put slices of cucumber, sprigs of mint, lemon slices or fresh strawberries in, so it has a subtle flavour as well as looking pretty. For the ultimate in 5-star chic, a rattan ice-bucket adds a luxurious vibe to the table as you keep drinks cool on a warm day. Ice bucket Rebecca Udall £65 Ice bucket Rebecca Udall £65 Table Runner Denys & Fielding £24

Room for blooms You don’t need to splurge on a huge bunch of flowers to add a flourish of colour, pick a few small blooms from your garden or perhaps some wildflowers growing locally, and dot them around the table in tiny bud vases. Heavenly Homes and Gardens, Pair of Round Clear Glass Bud Vases, £6 Truly Scrumptious Large / Small Bud Vase Talking Tables £10.00

Light it up For dinners that stretch on well into the evening, outdoor lighting adds an almost magical atmosphere. Think a scattering of candles twinkling on the table in coloured tea-light holders or candlesticks, or gentle light from festoon bulbs strung like jewels over the table. Lacquer Swirl Taper Candles £6.50 Rebecca Udall Lights4fun 30 Warm White Plug-In Festival Festoon Lights Lights4fun £29.99 Black dipped candle planter Chilli Winter Isle of Wight Ltd £19.50

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O U T DO O R SPACES

How to Make The Most of your Outdoor Living Space If the last year or so has taught us anything, it is how important getting fresh air and being out in nature is. If you are in the position where you have a garden, whether that be a sprawling green space or small patch of land, there are a few options available that will transform it into your very own outdoor living space. BY ELLIS COCHRANE

Image credit: The Artificial Grass Company Scotland

ARTIFICIAL GRASS Living in Scotland and the UK as a whole, can often take a toll on the grass in our gardens and green spaces. Whether it’s frost or cold weather making the grass brittle and prone to damage when trodden upon. Or you feel like you spend hours of your life continuously mowing the lawn in the warmer weather. It can be tough to upkeep grass all year long. Using a lawnmower itself can be an initial expense, then there’s grass feed, having to weed and strimming, trimming and mowing.

Low maintenance If maintaining the grass and green spaces in your garden is one of the banes of your life, investing in artificial grass will save you time, energy and money in the long run. Investing in your outdoor space can not only increase the value of your property but it is also an investment in your ow n quality of life, particularly in these unprecedented times. The impact that having your own outdoor space can have on your mental health and wellbeing can be invaluable. So whether you don’t utilise your garden as much as you’d like, have children or pets that you need to be mindful of or have wanted to give it a refresh for a while now, we’re sharing the three options that can either be used on their own or to compliment one another in your garden or balcony.

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If you’re looking for a front garden that will have your neighbours quite literally green with envy, this could be a great option for you. And there are now a multitude of different faux grass options available that not only make it look realistic, so much so that it would be hard to tell that it’s not the real deal. But you can choose which option is best for you, whether it be in a high footfall area, for cats and dogs or for your own backyard artificial putting green.

No mud or mess No matter the time of year, rain is an almost certainty here in Scotland. And

in turn, mud. Whether you routinely have to walk over the grass to hang your washing, have children or pets who track the mud back inside or just hate the look of muddy and sodden grass, by going faux you eliminate the risk of mud and mess.

Pet friendly We love our pets but we don’t love the damage they can often do to our lawns. By installing artificial grass you again don’t need to worry about muddy paw prints being tracked indoors. Urine stains, dug up patches and pesticides and chemicals are also not a concern anymore.

MAKE USE OF MORE SPACE This option isn’t just limited to gardens. Artificial grass is a great option for balconies and even decking. If your only outdoor space is a balcony, you can easily breathe life into it by installing artificial grass. It can take a boring grey space and give it colour all year round. Decking can also sometimes become slippery when wet, which is when having the extra grip of the astro turf can be really beneficial. You also don’t necessarily need to paint the whole decked area if most or some of it is covered in turf. Again, this will save you time and energy in the future. No matter how big or small the space is that you have to work with, artificial grass can give it life and make it much easier to enjoy your outdoor space all year round.

O U TD O O R SPACES overall design of the decked area. And even if you choose to go for a natural finish when it is installed, there’s nothing stopping you from giving the decking a refresh over the years. We’re big fans of the Seagrass, Dusky Gem and Cool Marble Cuprinol shades.

Image Credit: Garden House Design Tile Mountain (£21.99)

Decking path may be much more suitable to you than paving the entire back or front garden. This means there’s no risk of you stepping on your flora or fauna as you traverse through it.

If you’re not someone who enjoys tending to their garden but likes to sit out or make the most of it with the likes of a hot tub or outdoor dining area, decking could be the ideal option for you. And Indoor to outdoor living can be made all the more seamless with decking. Having your back door or doors lead straight out onto decking is always a breathtaking design look. Imagine sitting out on your decking in the warmer months, or even in the colder months if you employ a patio heater, with a glass of wine or a cocktail in hand as you look out into your garden? More so than ever, being able to spend time outside the four walls of your home is a luxury that shouldn’t be taken for granted. So why not make the most of it? You may think that you know what traditional decking is all about but there are many more ways to use it to create a stunning outdoor space.

Image Credit: Cuprinol UK

Paving Utilising paving is another great way to continue the flow from the indoor to the outdoor, especially if you have sliding or bifold doors that lead right outside. Paving can either be used in tandem with grass, foliage and flowerbeds or in replacement of.

It can also be used in the same way as decking, in that you can create your own outdoor living space. Whether this be to add more dining or living room to your home or go all out with a fire pit or hot tub setup. Paving isn’t just for driveways anymore. You can also use paving to recreate different finishes. There is the option to go for a concrete, marble, cobble or porcelain appearance all by picking the right paving slabs for you and your space.

Image credit: Royale Stones Ltd (£65.99)

Other than walking straight out your back door onto decking, another great option is to have a decked pathway lead from your back door to a raised deck area at the rear of your garden. This gives you the sometimes much needed separation between the two spaces and allows you to also have grass or artificial turf be part of your garden design. You could make this space into one where you enjoy meals with your family and friends, a perfect spot to house a hot tub or a great space for a big outdoor hammock.

Path or patio?

There are also many different choices when it comes to the finish, colour and

If you have an urban oasis of flowerbeds, bushes, trees and seedlings, a paving

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E GG C H A IRS

Egg-cellent Chairs

If you, like the hundreds of thousands of others, have been desperate for the Aldi Egg Chair, you too know that an Egg Chair is the “IT” piece of garden furniture this year. Last year it was the L shaped rattan sofa, but this year’s must have for gardens is the Egg chair.

BY ZOE JOHNSON

The Aldi Special Buy hanging chair has now become somewhat of a fable, having sold out within 3 minutes with a queue of over 200,000 just to get on the super-market’s website. Being priced at £149 it is no surprise.

also fit in any spot, making it functional for any space, from a small balcony to a large back garden. With its cocoon-like shape it is the perfect place to curl up with a book and a blanket for a relaxing summers day.

As we spend more time - and money - on our gardens than ever before it is no wonder outdoor furniture is selling out almost instantly. With holidays on hold it seems we are all looking to bring the vacation feeling to our back gardens. The Egg Chair is so popular as it brings a tropical vibe and is reminiscent of something you’d find at a 5-star hotel in the Caribbean. The beauty of the Egg Chair is that it can

Available in both hanging and static versions, the Egg Chair is now a staple in any outdoor furniture retailer ’s collections. If your kids love swinging about, a static version is a great option to avoid any catastrophes. The majority of Egg Chair styles are singular seats however there are some double versions on the market which will certainly save on arguments!

1. Aldi Egg Chair £149 2. B&M Egg Chair £175 3. Next Helsinki Chair £375 4. New York Hanging Egg Chair B & M £125 5. B&Q Apolima Rattan Effect Egg Chair £411 6. Ella James Indoor Outdoor Egg Chair Cover White £120 7. Dobbies Alps double egg cocoon chair £599

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Nest Broste Copenhagen Hanging Lot Chair - £417

EGG CHAI RS

One of the joys of Egg Chairs is that they also work perfectly indoors, for those days where the Scottish weather doesn’t quite cooperate. Egg Chairs originally came on the market in the 1950’s coinciding with the rise of mid-century modern. The style has developed over the years, but comfort and style have always remained the key elements. As with most interior trends nowadays, one of the attractions to the Egg Chair is it’s Instagram-ability. If you check out the #Eggchair hashtag on Instagram, you can see thousands of examples of how people have pimped out their Egg Chairs with fairy lights and flower garlands. Of the 83.6k posts tagged #Eggchair, a high majority feature pets chilling out. And yes, there are egg chairs for pets on the market if you are really dedicated to the #eggchairlife.

Cuckooland.com Mase Rattan Riviera garden Sofa - £499

Cox and Cox Cocoon Pet Bed - £95 Lizeth Atri Hanging Chair with Stand - £439.99 Wayfair.co.uk

With sunnier days and the easing of restrictions, there is no doubt guests will be fighting over an Egg Chair when entertaining. An Egg Chair is the ideal item for days spent in the garden. There is no better way to relax than in an Egg Chair, even though the search for one may not be so relaxing!

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O U T DO O R LIGHTIN G

Let there be Light The best ways to bring light into your garden

Habitat Solar Lantern £10

BY ZOE JOHNSTON

hen the sun goes down on a summer night and the warm heat is still in the air, we often want to stay out without being left in the dark. When choosing what outdoor lighting you want to use to illuminate your garden it is important to look for functionality however there are now thousands of options out there for any style and budget. Gone are the days of boring security style outdoor lighting and bring on outdoor lighting that looks like it came straight from a 5-star hotel. When landscaping your garden, it is important to think of how the space will be lit. This can be the difference between a simple looking garden and an elevated garden. Using integrated lighting creates an ambient space. Spotlights can perfectly light up your space and can be used to either project light throughout the space or highlight specific features, without taking up valuable space. A great use of spotlights is on decking, they bring soft lighting while also highlighting steps and bringing awareness, especially useful for when you’ve had a few too many! Iain & Eoin of @tenement.style on Instagram opted for integrated lighting for

their Southside sandstone tenement’s front garden.“We wanted to give it some dramatic kerb appeal, as well as for the benefit of added security with motion activated lighting.” Iain tells us. They chose to use colour changing bulbs so they can play about with different colours and themes depending on the season. They decided to go for integrated lighting as they wanted to focus on up-lighting rather than illuminating the whole garden. The point is to enhance the building rather than the grass out the front so integrated lighting seemed the right way to do that. Also, it keeps the garden looking sleek as well as being hard wearing.” The low-level lighting perfectly borders the path leading up to the house and is the perfect welcome to their home. Outdoor wall lights are a classic option for outdoor lighting. There are thousands of chic styles available now to fit with any style, whether you opt for a bright security flood light or a soft glowing lantern style. A great idea given by Minnie Philips on the Décor and Design Facebook Group is to use a smart bulb in your outdoor light so you can

Lights 4 Fun outdoor lighting from £16.99

Cox and Cox Three Frosted Solar Stake Lights £30

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control them from your phone. A much easier and effective option than waving your arms about at the typical motion sensored outdoor lights. If you don’t quite have the budget for integrated outdoor lighting, there are loads of options to bring light into your garden without the high cost. Solar panelled stake lights can perfectly line your walkways providing both lighting and a chic look. Stake lights are also easily movable, which is handy if some areas of your garden get more sun than others or if you regularly change your garden layout. If you are looking for a more intimate and whimsical look, string lights are the perfect way to illuminate any space, while also being inexpensive. Whether you opt for simple fairy lights

or go Love Island villa-esque with festoon lights, string lights provide a soft glow and instantly makes your garden look effortlessly romantic. String lights are also great if you are tight for space, by hanging above so you don’t lose valuable floor space in your garden or balcony. For a statement, outdoor floor lamps can really make your garden feel like another room in your home. Outdoor floor lamps have become increasingly popular in recent years, with many stylish offerings that are also highly functional. The Mushroom Floor lamp from Lighting Direct is a great option as it is made from polyethylene plastic making it lightweight, whilst also being highly resistant to any weather conditions. Lanterns can be used to create a soft ambient light while also looking stylish. When it comes to lanterns, they can either be solar panelled with a light or have room for a large candle depending on what you prefer. Lanterns are both inexpensive but effective and are another way to accessories your garden.

Dunelm bottle lights £1.50

Lighting style Wofi Remo Wall Light £28 Lights 4 Fun Darwin Metal Outdoor Garden Lantern £16.99

Courtyard Outdoor LED TruGlow Candles Lights4fun £26.9

Lighting Direct Mushroom Floor Lamp £129

You can also make use of all those bottles of Rosé you’ve drank by placing bottle lights inside to bring a soft glow to your garden. An inexpensive but effective way to bring some light into your garden and a great centerpiece for outdoor dining! If you’re keen to make a statement, light up garden furniture is a great option! Modern German Designer Moree has a spectacular selection of multifunctional LED garden furniture, as seen on BBC’s Love your Garden. The LED cube can be MAY 2021 |

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O U T DO O R LIGHTIN G used as a stool or a table making it ideal for entertaining. Next also have a great range of multifunctional lighting in their SS21 range, including the Helsinki floor lamp that also doubles as a side table! When it comes to multifunctional lighting it doesn’t stop at just furniture! There are also loads of outdoor lights that double up as sound systems, to really make your garden party go

Lime Lace Moree LED Cube £265

Dunelm Elements Black Solar Planter Wall Light £10

aGLOW Bluetooth Outdoor Speaker & LED Light with Gold Front Cuckooland.com £99

A by Amara Outdoor Solar LED Wire Table Lamp - Light Grey £40c Helsinki Floor Lamp Next £99 om £99

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off! The aGLOW Bluetooth outdoor speaker and LED light from Cuckooland.com also features a Bluetooth speaker while also providing great light. Outdoor lighting means you can make the most out of your garden no matter how dark it gets. Whether you opt for integrated lighting or accessories your space with lanterns and string lights, lighting your garden does not have to be boring. There are plenty of sleek ways to illuminate any space you have whilst being on budget and functional. Garden lighting can transform and enhance a space, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space when the sun goes down.

Stockists COMPANY NAME

TELEPHONE

EMAIL OR WEBSITE

COMPANY NAME

TELEPHONE

EMAIL OR WEBSITE

Abstract House ADM Systems

020 8099 9243 abstracthouse.com

Essential Home

351915509359

essentialhome.eu

01756 701051

Etsy etsy.com

Aldi

0800 042 0800 aldi.co.uk

admsystems.co.uk

Farrow & Ball

01202 876141

farrow-ball.com

Fired Earth

01295 812088

firedearth.com

Fireside Fireplaces

01414293989

firesidefireplaces.co.uk

FlemingHomes

01361 883785

fleminghomes.co.uk

Allan Corfield Architects Ltd

01383 737101

Amara

0800 587 7645 amara.com

Annie Sloan

01865 770061

Anthropologie

0808 196 8599 anthropologie.com

Garden Design Scotland 01224 739184 gardendesignscotland.com

Antipodream

739 1514 622

antipodream.co.uk

Garden House Design 01903 774774

gardenhousedesign.co.uk

Armac Martin

0121 359 2111

armacmartin.co.uk

Garden Trading

01993 845559

gardentrading.co.uk

Audenza

01162 986393

audenza.com

Gardenesque

0330 133 1469

gardenesque.com

B&M

0330 838 9000 bmstores.co.uk

B&Q

0333 014 3098 diy.com

German Kitchen Studio

01592 640349

germankitchenstudio.co.uk

Bazaar

0800 988 1286 beanbagbazaar.co.uk

Glenlith Interiors

0141 647 0202

glenlithinteriors.com

Bioethanol Fires

0161 929 1870

acarchitects.biz

anniesloan.com

bioethanolfires.co.uk

0330 024 0383 gporetro.com

Graham & Green

01225 418200

Greenway Furniture

0800 048 5725 greenwayfurniture.co.uk

cardwellgardencentre.co.uk

H&M Home

0344 736 9000 2.hm.com

carneilhomes.com

Habitat

0345 640 2020 habitat.co.uk

chalkpinklinencompany.co.uk

Harlequin 020 34575 harlequin.sanderson designgroup.com

0808 164 0130

bluebellgray.com

Bo Concept

0141 341 4920

boconcept.com

Carneil Homes Chalk Pink Linen Co

01592 841164 01872 492192

goscandi.com

GPO Retro

Bluebell Gray

Cardwell Garden Centre 01475 521536

GoScandi

Charlested cs@charlested.co.uk Harris Gin charlested.com

01859 502212

grahamandgreen.co.uk

harrisdistillery.com

Heavenly Homes and Gardens

enquiries@heavenlyhomesandgardens.co.uk heavenlyhomesandgardens.co.uk

Hideaway Beds

01752 511111

Charlton Island Kitchens

0800 065 4506 charltonisland.com

ChilliWinter (IsleofWight) Ltd

07912 946574

Claybrook Studio

020 705 21555 claybrookstudio.co.uk

info@homeluxeco.com HomeLuxeCo. homeluxeco.com

Collective Stories

07771 125128

collective-stories.com

Homescapes

0121 368 0051

homescapesonline.com

Copper Leaf Design

07585 114894

chilliwinter.co.uk

wallbeds.co.uk

copperleafdesign.co.uk

Homesense

01923 473561

homesense.com/home

Cosentino

cosentino.com

Hoos Glasgow

07788 480421

hoosglasgow.co.uk

Country Life Furniture 01789 587638

countrylifefurniture.co.uk

Ilovewallpaper

01429 803932

ilovewallpaper.co.uk

Cox&Cox

0330 333 2123

coxandcox.co.uk

Iconic Lights

Cream Cornwall

01326 450811

creamcornwall.co.uk

IKEA

020 3645 0000 ikea.com

Crosswater

0345 873 8840 crosswater.co.uk

IMS Heat Pumps Ltd

01738 827244

cuckooland.com

01305 231231

Ink and Drop

Cult Furniture

020 818 56960 cultfurniture.com

inkanddrop.com

Cuprinol

0333 222 7171

Insideout

01822 855654

Daals

024 771 80023 daals.co.uk

Internorm by Scotia

080 8129 2089 internormbyscotia.co.uk

Denys & Fielding

07528 578198

Desenio

020 331 82047 desenio.co.uk

INTU Boiling Water Taps

01772 923849

Divertimenti

02075 818065

cuckooland.com

cuprinol.co.uk

denysandfielding.co.uk

divertimenti.co.uk

Dobbies dobbies.com Dowsing and Reynolds 0113 819 9985 dowsingandreynolds.com

iconiclights.co.uk

imsheatpumps.co.uk shop@inkanddrop.com

insideouthome.co.uk

intuboilingwatertaps.co.uk

IsaacsBazaar

isaacsbazaar.com

Jacqueline Milton

01935 891198

jacquelinemilton.co.uk

JML Garden Rooms

01764 663271

jmlgardenrooms.co.uk

Joe Browns

0113 270 6655

joebrowns.co.uk

John Lewis & Partners 0345 608 0675 johnlewis.com

Dulux

0333 222 7171

Dunelm

0116 264 4400 dunelm.com

Kings Park Kitchens

0141 562 1757

kingsparkkitchens.co.uk

Easy Fire

01325 327221

easyfire.co.uk

Kitchen Makers

01590 683225

kitchenmakers.co.uk

Ella James

01572 759190

ellajames.co.uk

Kitchencraft

0121 604 2222

kitchencraft.co.uk

Emily Carter

07999 975875

emily-carter.co.uk

La Redoute

0844 842 2222 laredoute.co.uk

dulux.com

MAY 2021 |

129

STO C K ISTS COMPANY NAME

TELEPHONE

La Residence Interiors 01403 752245 Lanai Outdoor

01223 915822

Leaf Envy

EMAIL OR WEBSITE

COMPANY NAME

laresidenceinteriors.co.uk

Scottish Garden Rooms 0800 047 2601 scottishgardenrooms.co.uk

lanai-outdoor.com

Screen With Envy

info@leafenvy.co.uk

Second Nature Collection Kitchens

leafenvy.co.uk Lighting Direct

0345 646 1137

lighting-direct.co.uk

Lighting Style

01282 969809

lighting-style.co.uk

Lights4Fun

01428 16040

lights4fun.co.uk

Lime Lace

0330 058 4158 limelace.co.uk

Lindmark Builders

0141 638 3698

LOAF.COM

020 3141 8300 loaf.com

lindmark.co.uk

Love Orchids hello@loveorchids.co.uk shop.loveorchids.co.uk Mackie Garden Rooms 01389 850597

mackiegardenrooms.co.uk

MADE.COM

0344 257 1888 made.com

Maisons Du Monde

0808 234 2172 maisonsdumonde.com/UK/en

Mandarin Stone

01600 715444

mandarinstone.com

Morale Home Furnishings

0141 883 2285

moralehomefurnishings.co.uk

TELEPHONE

8081 641 075

EMAIL OR WEBSITE

screenwithenvy.co.uk sncollection.co.uk

Setting Pretty info@settingpretty.com settingpretty.com Short Design Solutions 07534 416352 Snug

sshort96@hotmail.com

020 844 30880 snugsofa.com

Sofa.com

sofa.com

Stonecraft

01316 521464

stonecraftedinburgh.co.uk

Surface Plus Floors

0141 370 9890

http:surfaceplus.co.uk

Sweetpea & Willow

0345 257 2627 sweetpeaandwillow.com

Talking Tables

02076276767

The Artificial Grass Company Scotland

0800 999 6997 theartificialgrasscompanyscotland.co.uk

talkingtables.co.uk

The Dormy House sales@thedormyhouse.com thedormyhouse.com Matalan cs@matalanonline.co.uk The French thegirls@frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk matalan.co.uk frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk Bedroom Company MerewayKitchens 0121 706 7844 mereway.co.uk 01243 756240 thelittlebotanical.com The Little Botanical 0870 336 4000 millerhomes.co.uk Miller Homes 01292 591715 The Wee 01487 831034 mineheart.com Mineheart House Company theweehousecompany.co.uk

hello@mud-urbanflowers .com Mud Urban Flowers mudurbanflowers.com National Trust Shop

0344 249 1895 shop.nationaltrust.org.uk

Neptune

01793 934011

Nest

0114 243 3000 nest.co.uk

03337778000 next.co.uk

OJD Plumbing OliverBonas

07557 784704 020 8059 2414 oliverbonas.com

Olsen and Baker

01254 241100

neptune.com

olsonbaker.com

Outside In Garden Rooms

07932 772602

Parker Howley & Co

0333 444 0406 parkerhowleynco.co.uk

outsideingardenrooms.co.uk

Particular People info@particularpeople.co.uk particularpeople.co.uk Places and Spaces Art Co Plank Hardware

The White Company

203 758 9222

thewhitecompany.com

Tikamoon

0203 445 5440 tikamoon.co.uk

Tile Giant

0345 307 5000 tilegiant.co.uk

Tile Mountain

01782 223822

tilemountain.co.uk

UrbanOutfitters customerservice@urbanoutfitters.co.uk urbanoutfitters.com/en-gb/ Very

0800 110 000

very.co.uk

info@victorianplumbing.co.uk Victorian Plumbing victorianplumbing.co.uk Walls and Floors

01536 314730

wallsandfloors.co.uk

Wallsauce

01772 284110

wallsauce.com

Wayfair

0800 756 4665 wayfair.co.uk

Wilko wilko.com WM Boyle Interior Finishes

0141 429 1218

wmboyle.co.uk

Woodchip & Magnolia 01254 241100

woodchipandmagnolia.co.uk

placesandspacesartco.com

Woods Furniture

01305 262666

woods-furniture.co.uk

talk@plankhardware.com

Wren Kitchens

0345 127 7008 wrenkitchens.com

plankhardware.com Poster lounge

00800 900 900 30 posterlounge.co.uk

Prezzybox

01827 839041

prezzybox.com

Primark primark.com Pringle and Gray

07733 140392

Qettle

01603 875464

Quooker

020 792 33355 quooker.co.uk

Rational Kitchens

01543 459459

rational.de/en/home/

Rebecca Udall

01904 439658

rebeccaudall.com

qettle.com

Rocket Jack hello@rocketjack.co.uk rocketjack.co.uk

130

Rockett St George

01444 253391

rockettstgeorge.co.uk

Rowe Electrical

07837 428704

rowe-electrical.co.uk

Royale Stones Ltd

0800 002 9421 royalestones.co.uk

| MAY 2021

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